Making Attempts: The Only Way to Succeed

One of my favorite quotes is, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take,” popularized by Wayne Gretzky. This simple yet profound statement resonates with me often, reminding me of the importance of seizing opportunities and embracing the unknown. However, it also prompts reflection on the times when I felt like I’ve failed. The word “fail” can be problematic because it implies that I did something wrong, wasn’t smart enough, or lacked grit. Viewing success as merely the absence of failure creates an unintentional barrier that can hold us back from realizing our true potential.

We don’t fail. We make attempts.

Many of us shy away from trying if we think failure is an option. This mindset, rooted in a fear of making mistakes, often prevents us from taking the necessary steps toward our goals. But what if we shifted our perspective? Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, we can see them as valuable attempts. Each attempt, whether it leads to immediate success or not, provides insights and experiences crucial for growth. It’s only a failure if we refuse to learn from those attempts.

This idea was beautifully articulated by Andrea Jung in one of my favorite podcasts, Wisdom from the Top. Jung, a renowned business leader, discussed the importance of making attempts and learning from every experience. Her insights underscore the necessity of perseverance and resilience in facing challenges. By reframing our approach to attempts, we can cultivate a mindset that embraces continuous learning and improvement.

In our journey toward personal and professional growth, we must recognize that every step forward is a meaningful attempt. Regardless of the outcome, these attempts contribute to our development and prepare us for future opportunities. Embracing this mindset allows us to break through barriers, harness our unique potential, and ultimately achieve our goals.

If you want to explore the concept of successful attempts further, I’m here to help. As a coach dedicated to helping individuals and organizations thrive, I believe in the power of making attempts and learning from them. Together, we can break through the barriers that hold you back, harness your unique potential, and help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

Let’s chat about how you can become the best version of yourself. Schedule an appointment, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together. By shifting our perspective and embracing the power of making attempts, we can unlock new possibilities and create a future filled with success and fulfillment.

Remember, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Don’t let the fear of failure prevent you from trying. Each attempt is a step toward growth and success. Embrace the journey, learn from every experience, and strive to be the best version of yourself. Together, we can turn every attempt into a meaningful step toward achieving your dreams.