Bad choices, mistakes, and plain old stupidity. Nobody wants to acknowledge these, much less talk about them. People want to hear success stories, find the keys to success, and learn the 3 steps or 7 steps or 12 steps–or however many steps are in vogue at this moment–to success. The media and our culture glorify it, making us feel envious and less-than, which Madison Avenue loves because then they can sell us something to “solve” it.
However, failure is one of the most important things you can do, as long as you don’t let it defeat you and as long as you don’t quit!
In spite of how discouraged–or ridiculous or stupid–you may feel and no matter how hard it is, take the next step!
Moving forward, even if it’s only by an infinitesimally small increment, is the only way to get through (around, under, or over) what seems like failure and defeat. In reality, it’s a stepping-stone to a breakthrough for you.
So, in the words of Winston Churchill, “When you’re going through hell, keep going!”
Here are a few other quotes that might inspire and motivate you:
Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor.
– Truman Capote
Being defeated is only a temporary condition; giving up is what makes it permanent.
– Marilyn vos Savant,
Fall down seven times, get up eight.
-Â Japanese Proverb
I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.
– Michael Jordan
Jot down any of the quotes that resonated with you and keep them handy so you can refer to them often. I’m so proud of you for not giving in, for finding the steel and the fire within, and for moving forward.
Your Friend and Pep Pal,
Lauren
Yes I Can Pep Talks 
