Why this topic?
Setbacks are a natural part of life, and failure plays a critical role in teaching us what doesn’t work. Yet, it’s not always easy to see failure as a stepping stone rather than a dead end. For women, societal pressures and the double burden of perfectionism often make this even harder.
Did you know?
- 44% of women hesitate to take risks at work due to fear of failure, compared to 34% of men (2019 LinkedIn survey).
- Women are less likely than men to apply for roles unless they meet 100% of the qualifications (The Atlantic).
These patterns hold women back from pursuing opportunities, growing their confidence, and achieving their goals. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Our Focus This Quarter
This quarter, we’re diving into Failing Forward by John Maxwell—a powerful guide that challenges the fear of failure and reframes it as a critical step in personal and professional growth.
Failing Forward equips us with tools to:
- Reframe Failure: Shift your perspective to view failure as a learning experience rather than a personal flaw.
- Build Resilience: Develop the mental strength to bounce back from setbacks.
- Increase Self-Awareness: Understand how your mindset impacts your ability to take risks and grow.
- Take Calculated Risks: Embrace the courage to act despite the possibility of failure.
Through actionable insights, Maxwell inspires us to move past perfectionism and unlock our full potential.
Redefining Success on Our Terms
Success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about using it to grow. By embracing the mindset of failing forward, we:
- Take bolder risks without fear.
- Inspire others to challenge their own limiting beliefs.
- Foster a culture of resilience and continuous learning.
As women, our journey often involves overcoming obstacles that others might not face. But when we lead with courage and authenticity, we pave the way for others to thrive as well.
Ready to Grow?
This pillar is about more than accepting failure—it’s about transforming it into a tool for success. Together, let’s break free from perfectionism, embrace the lessons failure offers, and thrive in every area of life.
Join us as we explore Failing Forward and take the next step in our journey toward growth and empowerment.
The difference between average people and achieving people is their perception of and response to failure
Currently reading
Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell
Reading period: January 3 – March 31 2025
In Failing Forward, John Maxwell redefines failure as a vital part of the journey to success. Through practical advice and real-life examples, Maxwell shows how the most successful people embrace failure, learn from it, and use it to propel themselves forward. This book offers actionable strategies to build resilience, overcome perfectionism, and take confident risks. Whether you’re advancing in your career or growing personally, Failing Forward provides the tools to turn setbacks into stepping stones for success.
Goodreads
★★★★★ 4.2/5
