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The Problem of Not Being Able to Fail

by T.M Kayode

There are a number of people who walk the earth with a seeming inability to fail at anything. Whatever they try to do, they succeed. Whatever they put their minds to yields positive results more often than not. These individuals might not necessarily be prodigies, but they possess an extraordinary determination and work ethic that drives them to achieve their goals consistently. They excel because they are willing to put in the effort and dedication required to succeed, no matter the challenge.

Think of the colleague who takes on every project with unwavering commitment and always delivers outstanding results. Or the friend who masters new skills with ease, from learning a musical instrument to starting a successful business. These individuals are often seen as high achievers, their accomplishments celebrated and admired by those around them.

You may know one of these high achievers personally, or you might be one yourself. If you are, you’re likely familiar with the mix of admiration and envy that your success can provoke in others. But what you might also recognize is the unique challenge that comes with this pattern of success.

What I have noticed is that sometimes, the problem with not being able to fail is not wanting to try. The fear isn’t about failing; it’s about spending time on something that you almost didn’t have to. When you have the capability to succeed at virtually anything you set your mind to, the real challenge becomes deciding what to focus your energy on. The time spent on one endeavor could potentially be used for another, equally rewarding pursuit. This dilemma of choice can lead to a sense of lethargy and indecision, where the fear of not making the most efficient use of your time prevents you from starting anything at all.

This blog post discusses a few points from my experience on how I have navigated that lethargic feeling I have had in the past and how I navigated those seasons.

 Enjoy.

Point 1: No Knowledge or Skill is Useless

One thing that I have seen in my life is that the seemingly inconsequential skill I picked up or activity I engaged in – that sidetracked me, actually made a lot more sense in the later future. Picture this: I spent a bunch of hours on an activity in the past, thought it didn’t make sense and I just wasted my time, but in the future, that same skillset I got is required for something super important. I can recall the knowledge I gained early and provide a solution.

So, no knowledge or skill is truly useless. Every experience, no matter how trivial it seems at the time, contributes to your overall growth and capability. This understanding can help mitigate the fear of wasting time. Instead of seeing side projects or diversions as potential time sinks, recognize them as opportunities to acquire new skills and knowledge that might prove invaluable in the future.

Point 2: Whatever Your Hands Find to Do, Do It Well

Whatever you are engaged with right now, give it your best effort. This principle is not about achieving an unreachable standard of perfection; rather, it’s about making the most of the resources available to you in the moment. When you commit to a task or project, whether big or small, approach it with dedication and diligence.

Showing up fully and giving your best isn’t just about meeting external expectations—it’s about personal integrity and growth. It’s about cultivating a habit of excellence in everything you do, regardless of the scale or significance. This mindset fosters a sense of pride and satisfaction in your work, knowing that you’ve given it your all.

By embracing this principle, you not only maximize your current potential but also lay a foundation for future success. Consistently doing your best builds credibility, trust, and competence, which are invaluable assets in any endeavor. Moreover, it cultivates a positive reputation and opens doors to new opportunities based on your track record of excellence.

In essence, whatever task or project you undertake, approach it with the intention to excel. Your commitment to doing your best, no matter the circumstances, sets a standard of personal excellence that can propel you forward in your personal and professional life. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about giving your best effort and continually striving to improve.

Point 3: Spend Time in the Presence of God Discovering Your Purpose

Discovering one’s purpose can feel like a daunting task, especially when faced with countless opportunities and interests. Many wonder how they will know their purpose, particularly when expecting a clear, definitive answer from God. It’s natural to desire a dramatic revelation—a booming voice or a miraculous sign—but such experiences are rare.

If you’ve asked God for clarity on your purpose and haven’t received an audible baritone voice…  “my daughter, this is your purpose…” or a handwriting on the wall., you’re not alone. Most people don’t experience such awe-inspiring encounters. Instead, discovering your purpose often unfolds through a journey of seeking and listening.

Here’s what I suggest: spend dedicated time in God’s presence with your heart open to His guidance. It’s about building a relationship where you learn to discern His voice amidst the noise of everyday life. The more you seek God and respond to His nudges, the clearer His direction becomes.

This process isn’t always straightforward. It involves deep introspection and reflection on your life experiences. Look for moments where you know God was guiding you, even if subtly. These moments serve as signposts in your journey toward understanding your purpose.

While this may sound abstract, it’s a practical approach to aligning your life with God’s plan. Your purpose unfolds as you walk closely with Him, step by step. Embrace this journey of discovery and trust that God is continuously shaping your story, even if His guidance isn’t always loud or obvious.

So that’s all for today,

As a recap, the points are:  No Knowledge or Skill is Useless, Whatever Your Hands Find to Do, Do It Well, Spend Time in the Presence of God Discovering Your Purpose.

Have a great rest of your week.