"Success is not built on success. It's built on failure. It's built on frustration. Sometimes it's built on catastrophe." - Sumner Redstone

In the pursuit of success, it's quite easy to settle on the notion of continuous victory, seamless progress and an effortless journey to achieving a goal. The reality, however, is quite different. Success is not merely a result of uninterrupted triumphs; it's a culmination of failures, frustrations, and perhaps even unmitigated disasters.

Let's explore Sumner's quote and how embracing, rather than rejecting, failure can serve as the foundation for building longer lasting success.

1. Failure as a Catalyst for Growth: Failure is not an endpoint; it is the catalyst that propels us forward and ignites personal growth. When we stumble, make mistakes, or fall short of our expectations, we have an opportunity to learn some valuable lessons. Each failure can provide insight into our strengths, weaknesses, and areas that require improvement, but only if we let it. Embracing failure as a teacher allows us to refine our strategies, develop resilience, and ultimately build a stronger foundation.
2. Frustration can be a sign of progress: In the pursuit of our dreams, frustration is often a close companion along the way. It arises when we encounter obstacles, face unexpected challenges, or feel that progress is slower than anticipated. However, instead of viewing frustration as a roadblock, we should attempt to see it as a sign of progress. Frustration is often the result of pushing beyond our comfort zone when striving for something greater. By persevering through moments of frustration, we gain resilience, determination, and a heightened sense of accomplishment when we eventually overcome those hurdles.
3. Catastrophe as a turning point: Though it may seem counterintuitive, catastrophes can serve as a turning point. When we're faced with a major setback or an unexpected crises, we are forced to reassess our strategies, beliefs, and approach. Rather than continue to do what we've always done, catastrophes can present an opportunity for reinvention and to think differently. They test our resolve, shape our character and can ultimately lead to learning breakthroughs.
4. Learning from Failure: Success built solely upon success often lacks the depth and substance gained from overcoming failures. When we achieve victories without encountering setbacks, we miss out on valuable opportunities for adaptability and growth. The successes derived from failure are hard-earned and come with a deep sense of accomplishment. These triumphs are not based on luck or chance; they are a testament to your determination and willingness to learn from past experiences.
5. The Importance of a Resilient Mindset: To fully embrace failure as a stepping stone, we must cultivate a resilient mindset. Recognize that setbacks and challenges are inevitable in any worthwhile endeavor. When faced with failure, choose to see it as an opportunity to improve, refine, and overcome. By doing so, you become better equipped to navigate the inevitable ups and downs of your shorthand journey, emerging stronger and more prepared to seize success.

We must let go of the fear of failure and view it as an opportunity for progress. Failure is not a sign of inadequacy, but a natural part of the learning process. It allows us to refine our strategies, develop new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our goals. It's important to remember that failure is not a one-time event. It is a continuous part of life. Embrace the idea that each failure brings you one step closer to what you really want. Learn from your mistakes, adjust your course, and keep striving for excellence. Keep fighting, keep learning, and trust that your day of triumph will come.