"FAILURE IS THE FOUNDATION OF SUCCESS"

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Failure, often seen as a negative outcome, is an integral part of our journey towards success. In fact, embracing failure as a stepping stone can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and building resilience. Instead of shying away from setbacks, we can learn valuable lessons that propel us forward. Let me share my own experience with embracing failure and how it changed my life.

My 8th Grade Struggles

Back in my 8th grade, the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing students into online classes. The transition was far from smooth. Adjusting to this new learning environment was a struggle, and technical issues only added to the frustration. It was during this time that I experienced my first major academic setback. My grades plummeted, and I found myself with a string of 7s and a failing grade. For someone who’s an achiever before, this was a tough blow to my self-esteem.

I lost my interest in learning and had a difficult time motivating myself to excel academically. It was my first taste of failure in school, and it was bitter. I even had moments when I would cry, realizing the consequences of my laziness and lack of interest in my studies.

The Turning Point

Despite the disappointment in myself and from other people, I still passed in my 8th grade by thanks to my grades in other quarters. I just barely reached that 75-and-above average, which allowed me to still progress to the next grade level. But this experience left me deeply unsatisfied. I knew I could do better.

In the transition to 9th grade, we moved here in Antipolo, and I transfer school. The pandemic was still in full swing and my new school didn't have the means to conduct online classes due to various issues, including poor internet connectivity in our area so we only have modular distance learning. This move presented a new beginning for me. I promised myself that I wouldn't let my past failures define me.

Embracing Failure as Motivation

Instead of letting my lack of interest and my previous failures hold me back, I decided to embrace them as my motivation. I didn't want to experience failing grades again. I worked hard to regain my interest in studies. As I approached the end of my 9th grade, I was ecstatic to see the results of my newfound determination. I had transformed from "pasang-awa" student to a consistent top performer in our class. I maintained this top position with honors throughout the year, and it made me immensely proud.

Continuing the Journey

In grade 10, my last year in junior high school, I didn't rest on my laurels. I aimed higher and worked even harder. Every time I faced a challenge in studying and a moment of doubt, I reflected on my failures—remembering my 8th-grade journey. I used my failure as fuel to drive me forward. And it paid off. I continued to excel academically and completed junior high school as the top student in our class with high honors. I was also among the top 20 students in our school because of my hardwork and determination.

My journey from embracing failure as a stepping stone to becoming a better version of myself is a testament to the power of resilience and motivation. Failure is not the end; it's a part of the journey. It's how we respond to failure that defines us. The next time you stumble, remember that you are not falling but stepping closer to your success. So, don't be disheartened by your setbacks; let them be your stepping stones toward a brighter future.

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts." —Winston Churchill