Why failure is not a negative experience but rather the positive one.

Failure, as much as it hurts, is an important part of life. In fact, failure is necessary.

What is failure, really? Why is it so important to fail at something before we can succeed?

After my latest post on my failed attempt to Everest on a bike, I got few comments.

When we think about failure, we think of things in a negative light. We say that failure is painful and that it causes emotional turmoil and upset, and inflicts agonizing pangs of guilt, regret, and remorse.

But Failure is a steppingstone. And a very powerful lesson.

My 8 failure lessons I have learned from this experience:

#1 : prepare your kit and strategy

I had a poor logistical planning from the bike to the lights and computer.

#2: set up a good base camp

This is your support station, safe haven, kitchen, workshop, wardrobe, hospital and everything in-between...

#3: plan your nutrition

Electrolyte, food, bars...

#5: set up a recharge station:

Keeping your Garmin, lights and other essentials powered up can be tricky.

#6: develop a strategy:

break the challenge into chunks: “8,848m sounds ridiculous, but 8 x 1,000m is more workable.

#7: choose the right time to make your attempt - it’s better to get the maximum of daylight.

#8: don’t underestimate the challenge

Make no mistake, Everesting is very hard. Physically demanding and mentally challenging, it's a 20-24hr effort for most cyclists. Your legs can get you to around 5,000m in elevation gain, then your head needs to take over and force you up the final 3,848m when your body is screaming for you to stop!”

#failure #bodymind #lessonlearned