Failure and losses are not the easiest experiences to have, largely because we are in a world that deals unkindly with failure. Success is largely personal, as many people enjoy the benefits of your success, likewise failure. Sometimes, it is the pressure of how we are perceived that makes us want to succeed the more. If you have ever lost at something and felt terribly bad for such, here is how to turn your losses into wins.
The first thing you must realize, in John Maxwell’s words is that sometimes you win, and other times you learn. Losing is a form of learning. Just like a game of chess, the more you lose a game, the more you learn about winning. Every defeat seems like it brings you closer to success and a breakthrough. This should be the same approach we have towards winning. You do not lose anything essentially. You are either winning or learning from your loss.
With this mindset, you should realize that the sooner you get over from temporary and momentary failures, the sooner you will be able to refocus on how to secure your next win. You will face your challenges with more experience and conviction.
The second thing you should bear in mind is that winning and losing are highly subjective. It is most times a matter of perspective. The idea of losing a necessary ingredient for success and once you are focused on the bigger picture, you will not losing too heart as much as you do. You should question the reality of a win or loss, knowing that neither is definite and you can change the circumstance if you act differently.
Losing is always a catalyst for a new beginning and opportunity. Real defeat occurs when you do not try again. Your consolation should always be that you have the opportunity to write the story of your life, make choices and try again. If you lose hope, then real failure starts to set in.
Winning is a marathon. You should decide not to settle for momentary wins or dwell on momentary mistakes. There is an ultimate goal and dream you have. Once you start to focus on that, you will see that every part of your life’s journey is undergone to appreciate the beauty of success you will eventually have.
With these mindsets, you are set to move on. Moving on entails that you think about what went wrong, why it went wrong and how you can prevent it to avoid future losses. If you lose within a team or you are a part of a larger team, you can use that opportunity to seek feedback and reviews. It is highly probable that others will see more clearly and analyze better than you will do, without feeling emotional.
Afterwards, intentionally seek to become smarter. Most people who are extremely successful have mastered the art of turning their mistakes into important life turning points. Stay open minded and welcome opportunities to begin afresh. If the failure is quite fatal, you might need to take out sometime to get over it before you return to the scene. If you also need to seek professional help, ensure you do, so your perspectives are fresh and you can take advantage of new opportunities.
If losing is a consistent feature in your life, you might need to do some reevaluation. It might just be a matter of strategy or habit which once corrected, you will become better for it.
Following these steps will help you benefit from a loss and most likely position you to secure not just one win, but consistent wins for the rest of your journey through life. It is often said that your best teacher is your last mistake. Bear this in mind and prepare for success. You can not change what has happened, but you can choose to create a future you will be proud of.
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