By Diane Lang
We can’t be successful without taking a jump; a leap of faith within ourselves even if there is a chance of failing. Mistakes are teachable moments and much more – mistakes should affect us positively and not be viewed as negative. Here are six reasons why mistakes are a positive part of life and how embracing mistakes can lead to a more balanced, happier life.
“Recently I learned the hard way that jumping doesn’t always lead to instant success, but what it does lead to is a sense of accomplishment for trying. A sense of strength knowing fear didn’t stop you and the knowledge that we are all human and as many times as we jump is as many times there is a chance that you might fail and/or make a mistake. The funny part is through this whole jump experience, I have learned there is a lot of good in making a mistake. I want to share the positives of making a mistake. I hope this helps next time you decide to take a leap of faith and have a 50/50 chance of making a mistake,” shares Diane Lang.
Here are six reasons why mistakes are actually positive:
1. Let’s start with the typical one we always hear: we learn from our mistakes. An old one but a goodie. The happiest people are always learning.
2. Mistakes make us aware that we are not perfect. Once we realize we are only human, we can let of our perfectionism ideas and let the pressure melt away. We don’t have to set ourselves up for failure by expecting perfection or wanting to be perfect all the time. We can actually go enjoy ourselves knowing we aren’t perfect.
3. Mistakes mean we are taking risks. People who take risks are generally happy people. They take risks, they are creative. They don’t grow stale and/or stagnate. Instead, they take risks and enjoy the chances they are taking.
With mistakes, realize it’s about the journey to complete something not just about the outcome.
4. We develop a sense of accomplishment – mistakes give us a sense of pride. We tried, we didn’t procrastinate or let fear run our lives. Instead, we went for it. With taking risks comes a sense of pride and accomplishment.
5. Mistakes aren’t the end of the world. They only make us stronger. Making mistakes and trying again teaches us perseverance.
6. Mistakes are a motivator. They make us work harder.
“So, go out and make a mistake… I dare you!”
– Diane Lang is a Positive Living Expert and psychotherapist – is a nationally recognized speaker, author, educator, therapist and media expert. Lang is extremely mediagenic and offers expertise on a variety of health and wellness topics about creating balance and finding happiness through positive living as well as multiple mental health, lifestyle and parenting needs. In addition to holding multiple counseling positions, Diane is also an adjunct professor at Montclair State University.