I’ve made a lot of mistakes in life. The reality is I’ll probably make more. I firmly believe that failure is a learning opportunity, and the ability to learn and grow brings about success. Many of us know this, yet even knowing the sting of failure, letdown, and setbacks is something we all want to avoid. As we enter the winter, I’m fascinated with how I can best get to spring despite the stings that may come along the way because I know better than the drink of the cup of regret.
When I think about how we can move from regret to a posture of learning when we fail, I’m reminded of the power of gratitude. I’d never encourage anyone to avoid the sting of failure, but I will remind us of the balm of gratitude. Gratitude can help us shift our mindset from regrettable circumstances to opportune moments. Gratitude allows us space to examine the color in the stained glass picture. While in the presence of the sting of failure, gratitude is the camera dolly that pulls back to reveal the great work of life in all its beautiful transitions. After all, isn’t learning the fuel of a healthy transition?
I’m of the mind that gratitude is a behavior that is practiced. Keeping a gratitude journal is a great way to stock all the ways life gives you opportunities to be grateful. If you’re not into journaling, add a mantra to your mindfulness practice like “I’m grateful for this inhale, I’m grateful for this exhale” to find gratitude for the simplest things. Perhaps your gratitude practice becomes your active presence to being with your partner, your kids, or a walk around the block. Whatever it is, building the muscle of gratitude is possible to achieve.
I started Better Humans Consultancy because I wanted to put my experiences working with leaders in the marketplace in ways I can be grateful for. As we land 2024, I’ve got so much to be thankful for. With 2025 right around the corner, BH Consultancy is excited to continue building frameworks for learning and gratitude to resonate with our clients. We’d love to work with you too!
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