When Tunde was laid off from his job at a thriving tech company in Lagos, it felt like his world had crumbled. The financial pressures, coupled with the societal expectations to "always succeed," weighed heavily on him. He started feeling anxious, doubting his self-worth, and isolating himself from friends and family. Tunde's story isn't new, many Nigerians face similar struggles when life doesn't go as planned. But what if Tunde's experience wasn't just a setback, but a crucial part of his journey to something greater? Indeed, he eventually secured an even better job and flourished after 2 years of tough hardship.
Failure can be a tough pill to swallow, especially in a society that often equates success with one's value. But what if we could understand that failure, far from being a setback, is a crucial ingredient for success? The lives of many renowned individuals, including the likes of J.K. Rowling, serve as powerful reminders that failure is not just inevitable but valuable. Rowling's rise to fame with the Harry Potter series was preceded by a string of personal and professional failures, including a difficult marriage and financial hardship. Yet, she acknowledges that these failures were the very experiences that taught her resilience and discipline, paving the way for her success.
In education, too, failure plays a pivotal role. A study from Teachers College at Columbia University found that students who learned about the struggles of scientists performed better in math and science. This finding underscores the importance of normalizing failure, helping students see challenges as part of the learning process rather than as a reflection of their intelligence. However, in many academic and professional settings, failure is still stigmatized.
Breaking down the taboos around failure is crucial for mental health. A growing movement encourages individuals to share their "CVs of failures" online, recognizing that open discussions about setbacks are essential for personal and professional development. Many historical figures such as Albert Einstein and Oprah Winfrey faced significant failures before achieving monumental success. Their stories remind us that failure is not the end. It can be a powerful tool for mental growth and resilience.
Dr. Jibril Abdulmalik
Tribune Article for the column "Your Mental Health & You"
Thursday, 22nd August 2024
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