Overcoming failure means learning from mistakes and moving forward, even when things don’t go as planned. While most people are aware that failure is part of learning and growth, dealing with failure can be difficult. Fortunately, clients can turn to supportive resources to work on this process.
The Overcoming Failure handout reassures clients that making mistakes is a normal part of personal growth and that overcoming the fear of failure allows them to gain meaningful lessons. This resource is divided into three sections: the first section discusses how to embrace failure, the second shares facts that challenge the negative views about mistakes, and the final section offers practical tips to gradually overcome the fear of failure.
Kids and teens using this handout can mindfully allow themselves to fail, try better, seek new experiences, and take risks. As an additional tip, encourage them to explore new skills or hobbies, and remind them to be kind to themselves as they learn from their mistakes.
Caring adults can work together to find out more about the fears that are holding them back by having open conversations. They can offer specific support to help address these fears. They can also incorporate confidence-building activities into their homes and classrooms.
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References:
- Junuthula, S. (2022). Effect of fear of failure on teen decision making. Advances in Applied Sociology, 12(09), 439-469. https://doi.org/10.4236/aasoci.2022.129035
- Maltese, A. V., Simpson, A., & Anderson, A. (2018). Failing to learn: The impact of failures during making activities. Thinking Skills and Creativity, 30, 116-124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsc.2018.01.003
- Oosthuizen, R. M. (2020). Resilience to emotional distress in response to failure, error or mistakes: A positive psychology review. Mistakes, Errors and Failures across Cultures, 237-258. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-35574-6_12
- Raftery-Helmer, J. N., & Grolnick, W. S. (2016). Children’s coping with academic failure. The Journal of Early Adolescence, 36(8), 1017-1041. https://doi.org/10.1177/0272431615594459
