We tend to ignore the topic of failure and focus on success. However, by recognizing our innate weaknesses and daily struggles, we are better equipped to face and avoid those challenges. Robert W. Bly introduces content in this capacity in his book entitled Ready-Made E-Zines.

1. Lack of well-defined purpose in life. We all struggle with finding where we belong and why. However, by defining an end goal for yourself—whether short-term or long-term—you will feel more motivated, and appreciated, to strive for success.

2. Lack of ambition to aim above mediocrity. It is easy to get stuck in a rut, so continuously challenge yourself. Discover new and efficient ways to complete a task; take a different route to work. Passion can be difficult to maintain, but you will feel better if you complete things to the best of your ability. Besides, who knows where your efforts will lead you.

3. Lack of self-discipline. Staying organized and motivated will help prevent this. Find a system that works best for you and do not let yourself stray from it. Be strict with yourself.

4. Procrastination. If this is your weakness and you have the resources, then an administrative assistant is a perfect fit. They can help you stay organized and can help take tasks off your to-do list, allowing you to focus your time on the tasks you want to be focused on.

5. Lack of persistence. Do not start something without finishing it. Do not give up when a problem arises. These things may be easier said than done, but persistence is a success within itself. You will grow from the challenges and learn for the future.

6. Negative personality. Do not ruin potential opportunities or cooperative work environments with a bad attitude. At the same time, excessive optimism can spoil business relationships. Being realistic is extremely important. Bumps in the road are frustrating, but if you stay logical in your approach, solutions will make themselves known—whether in the form of assistance or strategy.

7. Lack of a well-defined power of decision. Find the balance between making prompt decisions and thinking things through. Once you have reached a decision, only make gradual changes when necessary.

8. Over-caution. Sometimes you have to jump outside of your comfort zone and take risks. Do not miss opportunities due to over-caution.

9. Wrong selection of associates in business. Find a work environment that suits you. You should feel inspired by the work you are doing and the people you are working with. If you have an administrative assistant, it is important for your strengths and weaknesses to complement one another.

We can learn from others’ failures just as well as their successes, and in some ways, we learn more. We may try to repeat the exact steps of someone’s success story, but life is not a scientific formula. Each of us have different attributes, backgrounds, and opportunities, so our outcomes will always be different. However, we are all familiar with the concept of failure. We learn from others’ mistakes, and we can use these lessons to shape our own paths.

Thank you to Robert W. Bly for his contribution to this article.