Lessons from Mistakes: How Failures Helped Me Grow

Not everyone wants to talk about their mistakes, but to become better, one must first fail. As I reflect on my life journey, I realize that my failures have been valuable tools for personal growth. Here are three instances that, although painful, have taught me significant lessons.

Mistake 1: Breaking My Foot by Kicking a Goal Post

Accidentally breaking my foot while kicking a goal post may seem like a silly story, but it was a wake-up call. For a while, I found it easier to express my struggles through physical aggression, such as hitting a wall with my fists. However, this method was not only harmful but also ineffective in resolving my issues.

Key Takeaway: Violence Is Not a Solution

Actions like hitting a wall or kicking a goal post do not address the root of the problem. Moreover, they can lead to physical and emotional harm. This experience taught me that violence, particularly towards oneself, is never a viable option for coping with stress or dissatisfaction. Instead, it is crucial to seek healthy outlets for emotions and to address issues through productive communication and actions.

Mistake 2: Hurting My Ex by Playing with Her Feelings

Another mistake I regret is when I played with my ex-girlfriend's feelings. Although I am not proud of this, it did help me see the gravity of the consequences of my actions. After we broke up, we continued a loose relationship with an understanding that we were still friends with benefits. However, this arrangement caused her significant emotional distress, which I only realized too late. She was clingy due to a lack of better options and felt bored in the relationship.

Key Takeaway: Accountability and Responsibility

This experience taught me the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and their potential consequences. If I had been more mindful of her feelings and her needs, I could have prevented her emotional pain. Moving forward, I was more careful with my relationships and ensured that I did not repeat the same mistake with my second ex-partner. This lesson emphasized the necessity of being accountable for one's actions and their impact on others.

Mistake 3: Returning to Asia Broke After a Failed Dream

A significant failure in my life was returning to Asia, broke and disillusioned after a failed dream of becoming a digital nomad in Bali. Despite finishing my studies, saving money, and working on the side, my dream of being a digital nomad seemed unattainable. I made the impulsive decision to book a plane ticket to Bali even before rejecting my job offer. The initial excitement turned into a sense of loss and frustration when I realized I was not making progress toward my goal.

Key Takeaway: Perseverance and Problem-Solving

This experience taught me the value of perseverance and problem-solving skills. Even when faced with a setback, one can sit down and figure out a way forward. Whether it is under palm trees or in a different setting, the determination to achieve a goal can lead to productive solutions and new opportunities. This lesson led me to build a writing business, which has become a fulfilling and successful venture.

Conclusion

Though these failures were painful, they provided me with valuable insights that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. Reflecting on these mistakes, I have learned the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and resilience. If I had not experienced these failures, I might not have achieved the personal and professional success that I have today.