"A failure is not always a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying"
- B. F. Skinner
About this Quote
This quote by B.F. Skinner uses a nuanced perspective on failure and perseverance, promoting for a deeper understanding of our efforts and the contexts in which we run.
Skinner starts by comparing failure and error, which are often thought about synonymous. He recommends that failure is not inherently unfavorable or indicative of an error. It might just represent the limitations imposed by the situations, acknowledging that individuals can only do their finest given their existing scenario. This insight welcomes a more compassionate and situational analysis of why things don't turn out as prepared, encouraging a focus on effort instead of result. It suggests that external aspects typically influence outcomes, and failure can be a natural part of the learning process.
The quote then moves to a more inspirational concept: "The real mistake is to stop trying." Here, Skinner emphasizes the importance of perseverance in time. Dropping in the midst of difficulty is determined as a real mistake because it removes the possibility of ultimate success. This part of the quote is a call to strength, underscoring that continuous effort and the desire to keep interesting despite setbacks is critical to getting rid of problems. It talks to the human spirit's persistence and the concept that ultimate success is possible just through sustained effort.
In essence, Skinner's quote motivates a reframing of failure, advising us to see it not as a definitive endpoint but as a knowing opportunity that can inform future efforts. It highlights the human capability to grow and adapt, suggesting that errors are not conclusive unless we permit them to be by quiting. By reframing failure as part of a wider journey towards accomplishment, Skinner encourages determination, promoting a frame of mind concentrated on development and constant making every effort instead of a narrow concentrate on immediate success.
"Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations. Expect the best of yourself, and then do what is necessary to make it a reality"