"I tried this, and it didn't work."
These words can be the most defeating or the most powerful words you ever say. It depends on the thing you say next.
I tried this, and it didn't work. I shouldn't bother trying anything that might fail again.
I tried this, and it didn't work. I've learned what doesn't work. Let's go on to the next thing!
The struggle is when creative people find themselves in jobs where the boss demands results. Testing for failure is not an option. If trying something doesn't work, then you lose credibility instead of being celebrated for your courage. You don't get to try risky ideas again.
If you or your kids find yourselves in that kind of job, quit.
Confident humility is the next generation's superpower. The ability to say, "I tried this and it didn't work" with a smile, some humor, and excitement to try the next thing.
Confidence that mistakes and failure are part of the process.
Because the one who has the confident humility to fail again and again is the one who will find the life-changing thing that works.
Well before the ones who played it so safe they didn't bother trying.