We’ve all heard it: “Failure is the best teacher.” But what if we’ve been overestimating the benefits of failure? According to new research from the American Psychological Association, the idea that failure is always a stepping stone to success might not be as beneficial as we think. Instead of embracing every failure as a learning […]
We’ve all heard it: “Failure is the best teacher.” But what if we’ve been overestimating the benefits of failure? According to new research from the American Psychological Association, the idea that failure is always a stepping stone to success might not be as beneficial as we think. Instead of embracing every failure as a learning opportunity, it’s important to recognize that not all failures lead to growth, and constantly focusing on them can actually hinder progress.
In a world where the phrase “fail forward” is often tossed around as a motivational mantra, it’s worth taking a step back to ask: Are we truly learning from our failures, or are we just glorifying them? The study suggests that the emotional toll of failure can sometimes outweigh its potential benefits, leading to stress and burnout rather than the resilience and growth we often expect. So, what’s the real takeaway here?
The idea that “failure is good for you” is rooted in a positive outlook, but there’s a darker side to constantly celebrating failure. Research shows that failure can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. While resilience is important, the constant cycle of failing without a clear plan for improvement can sometimes lead to demotivation instead of growth. The pressure to fail in order to succeed might even cause unnecessary stress, diminishing your overall well-being.
So, how should we view failure? Rather than idolizing it, we should focus on effective learning and problem-solving. Success often comes from knowing when to pivot, adapt, and seek feedback, rather than failing repeatedly without reflection. Learning from your mistakes is key, but it’s equally important to create an environment where learning happens before failure—by practicing patience, adapting strategies, and setting realistic goals.
The benefits of failure may be overrated, but that doesn’t mean we should avoid challenges altogether. The real value comes from learning, adapting, and setting yourself up for success in a healthy, sustainable way. Instead of glorifying failure, let’s embrace the idea that growth comes from making thoughtful decisions, reflecting on experiences, and adjusting course when needed.
Source: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2024/06/benefits-failure-overrated
