Failing
DebraI need to learn how to fail. Well, that isn't completely true. I know how to fail. I fail at things regularly. I need to learn how to fail and not be crushed by it... how to shake things off and laugh at myself and not take setbacks so seriously. I don't fail well.
I fail at failing. :)
I've started doing Morning Pages again this month and yesterday all this came bubbling out of me during my writing. (Morning Pages is a daily practice that Julia Cameron recommends in her book, The Artist's Way, in which the moment you wake up you open a notebook and write three full pages of whatever is in your mind. It clears the clutter and can provide inspiration in unexpected places. Like this blog post, for instance.) I could see where this one aspect has impacted and directed and redirected my life over and over and over again.
There are countless things I've never attempted because, oh my gosh, what if I can't do it well or what if I look like a fool or what if someone laughs at me? And, there have been countless other things I have tried and failed the first time and then become gun shy and refused to try again. I could have only needed practice or proper instruction or patience and been successful... but no, I couldn't risk failing again.
Maybe it's my age or maybe it's my new attitude but I'm beginning not to care so much what other people think. Other people are just as inept at life as I am, as we all are, so why be concerned with their opinions? What's that old saying? "Those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." That could apply here. People who love me will support me and those who don't love me... well, who cares?
I'm going to INVEST time this year in trying new things (or, once-tried-but-failed things) and taking risks and reporting them back here so I can get used to failing with an audience and you can laugh with me. Then you can help pull me to my feet and I'll start all over again.
Deal?
Reader Comments (3)
Deal! I can completely relate. =) Can't wait to hear more as you (re)tackle things...
I've heard another saying that keeps coming back to me. "Other peoples' opinions of you are none of your business." I'm trying to absorb it, but it's something to keep in mind as you move forward.
I've been wanting to add Morning Pages to my routine, too, as part of my wellness project. But, it seems, I have failed. Mornings are anything but smooth in my house.
I feel like I do this too: start things and fail to follow-through. And I always wonder what people think of me for that. Your post is a good reminder to let all that go. I like what the above commenter says about other people's opinions. I need to take that to heart.