Learning From Failure: 12 Leaders Share Their Hard-Earned Lessons
At one time or another, every leader will experience some degree of professional failure. While the experience can be disappointing or frustrating, it can also serve as a powerful teacher, imparting valuable lessons that can shape one’s views or career trajectory.
If you’ve experienced failure in your professional journey, know that you’re not alone — and you’re not down for the count. Below, 12 members of Rolling Stone Culture Council share the biggest lessons they’ve learned from professional failure and the lasting impact of that hard-earned wisdom.
Failure Can Lead to Success
If you are scared to fail, you will never truly achieve your potential or your company’s potential. Leaders understand that failure is part of the process and is vital to growth. My failures are actually what have led to my success as an entrepreneur. Most of my ideas have “failed” — but it only takes one great idea to change that paradigm. Think of your failures like building blocks and you will succeed! – Nathan Green, New Level Radio
Take the Input and Learn
It is only failure if you fail to learn. Failures are great teachers for leaders, in business and in life. Do not overinvest until you have evaluated a theory or product. Seek feedback from key constituents. Take the input and learn. Where would the tech industry be today if Steve Jobs had not listened to the market after the failed launch of the Apple Lisa early on in that company’s history? – Jason Fiber, THX
Cool Heads Prevail
Like in life, cool heads prevail. Having once had a losing power struggle with a judge, I realized that no one can hear you when you’re not listening. Whether pleading your case, explaining your argument or advocating for your client, coming from a calm place allows you to persuade more effectively. – Andy Hale, Hale & Monico
Always Drive Forward
I have learned to continue driving forward, no matter what curveballs come our way. Being a business owner is unexpected by definition. There is no way around that. By accepting that life throws all of us for a loop when we least expect it, we can decide what to do with what we do have, hone our strengths and succeed in leaps and bounds — that’s what it’s all about. – Victoria Kennedy, Marisa Johnson
You Need to Build Resilience and Adaptability
The biggest lesson I learned from a professional failure was the importance of resilience and adaptability. As a leader today, I’ve seen that failure have a profound impact on how I approach challenges and guide my team. I understand that setbacks are a natural part of any journey, and rather than dwelling on the failure, I focus on learning from it and finding solutions to move forward. – Kristin Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC
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It’s OK to Walk Away
It’s important to realize that it’s OK to walk away from something that isn’t working. It fosters a culture of creative courage and empowers teams to take risks and try new things, all in the name of learning and growth. – Michael Klein, cannabisMD
Lose With Dignity and Perspective
When you’ve worked hard on a given project or pitch and you experience personal failure, it can be incredibly demoralizing. Frustration at the moment is expected, but quickly put the loss in perspective. Take time to evaluate why the loss occurred and learn from the mistake. It’s important to also be accountable for that failure and not deflect it onto others. – Glenn Minerley, Momentum Worldwide
All Problems Have Solutions
I have learned that all problems have solutions. The CEO’s job is dealing with failures every day, finding solutions and having the personality to keep the team motivated and knowing any new challenges will be overcome. – Adam Rumanek, Aux Mode Inc.
Your Mental State Matters
When I was drowning in debt and forced to close my doors due to Covid-19, I thought I was finished. What I didn’t realize at the time was how much our mental state as leaders will determine the outcome of our businesses. I’m grateful for this journey because it has allowed me the time to focus on how the mind works and to learn that I am in control of my destiny, regardless of the circumstances. – Kelley Swing, Head Case Hair Studio
Pivot, Assess, Do
The good news is, when you hit rock bottom, there is only one way to go — up. See where that is for you. Pivot from the failure by assessing what worked, what didn’t and why, and then do something positive. What is that for you? Taking a short break? Getting counseling? Asking for help from someone you trust? – Susan Johnston, New Media Film Festival®
Failure Is a Stepping Stone
Professional failure teaches resilience. It’s important to see failures as stepping stones to achievement. Learn, adapt and try again. This creates a culture where failures are learning opportunities and leaders focus on solutions. Resilience helps overcome obstacles. – Arvin Khamseh, SOLDOUT NFTs
Look at the Big Picture
The biggest thing that I’ve learned is to never give up and to try again. Always look at the bigger picture of the situation and absorb the positive takeaways. Ideally, you’ll know what not to do then in the future as you continue to grow in your respective adventure. – Chris Bianchi, CB Entertainment