If so many famous and successful people throughout history have been quoted about the advantages of failure, why do we dread it so much?

I’ll tell you right now: I’ve failed. I’ve failed a bunch! And guess what. I’ve hated it every time.

I’ve failed academically, athletically, and relationally. I’ve failed conversationally and spiritually. I’ve had moral, ethical, and legal failures. I’ve failed friends, family, and strangers. I’ve failed to tell you about all my failures.

I don’t like failing. Failing hurts. It’s embarrassing. It’s frustrating.

You know what else it is? It’s a teacher! Failure is the helpful, valuable, and necessary tuition you pay for the lessons of success.

As leaders, if we never take on tasks that stretch beyond our current knowledge, skills, or abilities, we won’t grow.

I’m not suggesting intentional recklessness or foolishness, but sometimes doing a little “What were they thinking?” is good for our development.

In what ways have you been apprehensive about getting out over your skis? Where do you need to grit your teeth and risk failure?