How to Fail in 2015

For some people, failure is not an option. For others, failure seems to follow them wherever they go. What is the difference between people who fail and those who don’t? It all boils down to a variety of things, including personality type, a willingness to reach outside your comfort zone and the following mindsets:

Never Trying New Things
“I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying.”
-Michael Jordan

Some people are so fearful of failure, they never attempt anything new. If you’ve always wanted to quit your job and try a different career, what is holding you back? An honest look in the mirror would probably reveal a fear of failure. This year, push aside your fears and attempt just one thing that scares you. Chances are, you’ll find that your fears were unfounded.

Looking at Failure as Failure
“It's fine to celebrate success but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure.”
-Bill Gates

People who continually see their missteps and blunders as failures will see themselves as failures. Those who can look at the error of their ways and use it as a lesson to learn from and try again will eventually succeed. It may take longer than anticipated, and your success may come in a different format than what you originally envisioned, but see the process as a journey and celebrate your small accomplishments along the way.

Giving Up
“Success is the result of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty, and persistence.”
-Colin Powell

Giving up after a setback is a guaranteed recipe for failure. Perseverance in the face of potential failure is the basis for greatness. When Thomas Edison successfully invented the light bulb, it was preceded by thousands of failed attempts. Yet, he didn’t give up and viewed each failed attempt as a lesson learned.

Not Accepting Change
“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”
-John F. Kennedy

Change is inevitable. Those that can embrace changes in their lives, whether good or bad, are more resilient to setbacks. A healthy outlook on change, and life in general, stems from a willingness to “roll with the punches.” Your ideal future is within your grasp, but it will require a change from your current state.

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Mike Welch is the President and Owner of FranNet Minnesota, a franchise consulting firm serving Minneapolis, St Paul, and the state at large. Mike has a proven track record of matching entrepreneurs with business ownership opportunities. To learn more about becoming your own boss, click on the Follow button above, visit www.franchisingminnesota.com, and follow Mike on Twitter and Facebook.