Moving Forward from Failure

12/12/23 • 20 min

On today's episode, we're diving into a topic that every leader encounters: failures. As professionals in human services fields, we understand that setbacks are part of the journey, but what about those failures that hit a little harder? I've been there, and I bet you have too.

In this episode, I share personal experiences from different aspects of my career, like selling fitness center memberships, project management decisions, introducing new programs, and navigating customer service challenges. It's the failures that occur after we believe we're making the right choices that sting the most.

So, what do we often do when faced with these tough moments? We tend to turn the blame inward, questioning ourselves and our abilities. But what if there's a better way to handle failure?

Here's a fresh perspective:

Breathe: Take a moment to ground yourself. This setback is a part of your journey, and it will pass. Reacting with a clear mind is key to extracting valuable lessons.
Feel the Feelings: Instead of running away from the discomfort, embrace it. Feel one emotion at a time through activities like journaling, running, or meditating. Avoid the temptation to escape through external means – trust me, I've been there.
Take Responsibility: Identify what was within your control and acknowledge your intentions behind the decisions. Reflect on your energy in those moments. It's about curiosity, not judgment. This step is crucial for understanding yourself better and moving forward.
Learn: Now that you've processed the experience, it's time to learn. Ask yourself critical questions about the decision-making process. Could slowing down or speeding up have made a difference? What insights can you carry into future projects or relationships?

Remember, failures aren't forever. They're stepping stones to growth. Share your thoughts on what resonated with you, and if you enjoy this content, hop onto my newsletter at jenfreycoaching.com for quick weekly tips on leadership and self-care.
I'm cheering you on!

Want more info on living and leading with intention and purpose?
Click here for Jen's links.

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So, what do we often do when faced with these tough moments? We tend to turn the blame inward, questioning ourselves and our abilities. But what if there's a better way to handle failure?

Here's a fresh perspective:

Breathe: Take a moment to ground yourself. This setback is a part of your journey, and it will pass. Reacting with a clear mind is key to extracting valuable lessons.
Feel the Feelings: Instead of running away from the discomfort, embrace it. Feel one emotion at a time through activities like journaling, running, or meditating. Avoid the temptation to escape through external means – trust me, I've been there.
Take Responsibility: Identify what was within your control and acknowledge your intentions behind the decisions. Reflect on your energy in those moments. It's about curiosity, not judgment. This step is crucial for understanding yourself better and moving forward.
Learn: Now that you've processed the experience, it's time to learn. Ask yourself critical questions about the decision-making process. Could slowing down or speeding up have made a difference? What insights can you carry into future projects or relationships?

Want more info on living and leading with intention and purpose?
Click here for Jen's links.

Previous Episode

Act As If

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If you don't love the phrase, "fake it 'til you make it", you're in good company. Jen offers a more strategic version of this phrase that helps you become the person you want to be, no faking required. Learn to embody this version of yourself by asking yourself these questions:
- who do you have to be in order to make this dream come true?
- what would be different if you acted "as if"?
- what if you knew your dream was already done, how would you approach the goal?
Just like common corporate advice is to "dress for success", consider "acting as if" in advance of achieving a goal in order to become the best version of yourself!

Want more info on living and leading with intention and purpose?
Click here for Jen's links.

Next Episode

Spinning Your Wheels?

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Have you ever felt like you were taking furious action, but not actually getting traction in your business? It's so common to feel like you are spinning your wheels, and there are many reasons why this is happening:
1. Distractions - did you know distractions at work cost businesses around 588 billion dollars yearly (Zippia)?
2. Too many tasks - when you are constantly task-switching, your brain suffers and it often leads to lots of started projects, but not many that are complete.
3. Allowing yourself to stay confused.

Solutions for Traction
1. Plan: Investing 10-12 minutes in planning can save 2 hours of wasted time (Brian Tracy).
2. Prioritize: Identify glass balls from rubber ones (Dr. Lakshmin).
3. Acknowledge progress: Celebrate achievements and milestones.
4. The Counter-intuitive Solution: Stop, rest, live, and enjoy.

Listen to Ep 10 with Anna Javellana here.

Want more info on living and leading with intention and purpose?
Click here for Jen's links.