Monday, April 30, 2012

Post 1: Learning From Mistakes


Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.”

Our everyday actions are sparked by the question, “What happens if…?”  That phrase is the foundation for advancement, and it dates back to the time when we were cavemen. Someone had to wonder, "What happens if I rub two sticks together?" and "What happens if I use the resulting flame to heat up my meals?" Thousands upon thousands of these questions have been asked, and it has allowed us to become the most dominant species in the world.

Curiosity is an innate characteristic that is present in every human being. The degree of curiosity is what differentiates us. Some individuals shun curiosity, because they fear it may result in an uncomfortable position; but it is those situations that mold our character, and level of success. Those that hide from opportunity, and never venture outside their comfort zone will lead mediocre lives at best.  They won’t be able to withstand any sort of change, and will only thrive in a structured environment.

In my life, I try to explore a variety of fields, and I try to become competent in them through the use of experimentation.  Whenever I am confronted with a dilemma, I will persistently pursue the best way to overcome it.  With repeated experimentation, I can learn what works well, and what doesn’t, in any situation.

I also believe one can learn a lot from others’ actions. By analyzing their critical mistakes, it allows one to gain wisdom, without the pain that is associated with it.  That is the chief reason schools nationwide require students to study their country’s history.  They want us learn from our nation’s past mistakes, and not repeat them when we get old enough to vote.

Therefore, I say embrace your forthcoming mistakes and learn from them, because as Emerson says, “…The more experiments you make, the better.”