Failure: A platform to success
Medicine is a degree that consists of an endless number of exams, and recently I received my first year results. Waiting for those results was one of the most anxiety inducing experiences, and upon reflection I believe that this is partly as a result of the taboo surrounding failure of exams, or rather, failure itself. Failing brings judgement from others, a topic of discussion for people, and the right for others to say you are not capable. The stress associated with failing is inflicted by others around you, rather than by the event itself.
I have recently been reading “The Psychology of Money”- Morgan Housel, which clarifies that failure has a strong presence among those who have achieved success. People will always focus on Warren Buffett’s success as an investor, but rarely will they see how many times his investments have failed.
The process of achieving success has often involved set backs and “failures” along the way. I received a “pass” grade on an important research paper during my masters, which put my final grade in jeopardy. I was rejected by countless grad schemes and consulting/banking firms that I’d applied for. I was rejected from medical schools which I’d spend time and effort applying to and preparing for. Despite all of this, I ended up getting a distinction in my masters degree, secured a top consulting job, and I also began studying Medicine last year.
Each one of these “failures” have been a platform to build and find success when I continued to look in those areas. You may not be successful the first, second or however many times, but know that with each failure you are closer to success, building further layers to the foundations you started. Behind every successful person are more obstacles and setbacks, but these are not as interesting to focus on or as enviable.
The noise around you whether it be from co-workers, friends or parents should not dictate your belief in your abilities. Failure is your platform to success, learn what you need and correct your approach until you reach your success.
