I’ve been listening to “The Alison Show” podcasts, and goodness, this gal has so much contagious energy! She’s a riot. The podcast tour episodes are especially fun, filled with laughter and the sounds of a packed house of happy people ready to be uplifted.
On one of those episodes, I heard something said about making mistakes in life, “You win or you learn”. Isn’t that great? It’s not so much of a perspective of failing, feeling crappy about it, and never wanting to try again. It’s more about changing your view to a humble learner.
I’ve been in the photography business for nine years. I remember my newbie excitement and gusto to get out there and learn as much as I could about this beautiful art. I had lots more energy. This was before I had five kids, but just two, and had loads of extra time to study photography. I gained experience through plenty of sessions and clicking away, and I made loads of mistakes. Oh, heavens, so many mistakes. Some that made me want to just crawl under a rock and die. Yet, I shook myself off, tried my best not to cower down and feel miserable, learn from it, and keep moving forward.
My mistakes were blessings, and I definitely learned. What a gift mistakes in life can be, and the unique learning they are meant to give to the student. Winning is wonderful, but learning is vital for growth in any area of life. I can now say that I'm thankful for my mistakes and the growth they’ve given me.
I was in the car with all my kids heading to our homeschool co-op class, and the “Anne of Green Gables” audiobook was on. Anne said “I try very hard never to make the same mistakes twice". Thank you, dear Anne, for always being my literary inspiration.
You win or you learn. Don’t be afraid to get out there, to go after whatever it is you want to accomplish, and strive towards the gold. Know that mistakes are inevitable and they are lessons for the humble student. Embrace the wins, give thanks for everything, and be kind. We’re all making mistakes each day, and could use a little extra kindness.