Failing Forward
Embracing the Lessons of Every Season
“Do not fear the past. If people tell you that it is irrevocable, do not believe them. The past, the present and the future are really one: they are today.”
– Néhanda Abiodun
Every new season brings with it a whirlwind of emotions—hope, excitement, fear, and sometimes, anxiety. I have often found myself standing at the threshold of a new chapter, caught between the anticipation of what could be and the dread of what might unfold. Some seasons I have welcomed with open arms, only to be met with unforeseen challenges. Others I feared, only to realize they held profound lessons that revealed themselves over time.
In hindsight, the seasons I dreaded the most have been my greatest teachers. Their lessons, sometimes clear and immediate, other times unfolding gradually, have shaped me in ways I never imagined. Similarly, the seasons I eagerly anticipated have, at times, turned sour, bringing their own unique set of learnings.
Failing forward is the understanding that setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones. It suggests that regardless of the season ahead, it is wise to anticipate obstacles and embrace the growth they present. Mistakes, missteps, rejections, and failures are not meant to define us; rather, they refine us, equipping us with resilience and wisdom.
What I have learned is that failure is not the end—it is part of the journey. Each experience, whether good, bad, or indifferent, serves a purpose in our evolution. The key is to remain present, to have an open-eyed experience, and to use every outcome as a foundation for the next step.
So, whatever emotions accompany your next season, remember: this too shall pass. What matters most is how you choose to engage with the journey—taking in each moment, learning from every twist and turn, and stepping confidently into the next chapter.