Many of the most successful people in life see failure as a chance to learn, grow and persevere. They are professionals in failing forward, or turning an obstacle into an opportunity.
Plenty of famous icons have great success stories that are a result of failing forward. For example, Michael Jordan was cut from his high school varsity basketball team in his sophomore year. J.K. Rowling was unemployed and raising her daughter as a single mom when she began to write Harry Potter. Walt Disney’s first cartoon business went bankrupt, and he failed his attempt at becoming an actor. Now, Michael Jordan, J.K. Rowling and Walt Disney are considered legends of their craft.
Some of the most impactful lessons we learn are from failure, unmet expectations or a complete upheaval of our plans. Several causes of failure exist, such as a certain decision or life circumstance. Or, maybe a certain path didn’t turn out the way you thought it would. The key to failing forward is to learn from these situations and pivot to your next step smarter than you were before.
Failing forward is both a skill and a mindset. It is an opportunity to turn weakness, disappointment, frustration or fear into success. Failing forward means making the most of situations, which often leads to positive and unexpected outcomes.
Check out these success stories of local professionals who exemplified turning obstacles into opportunities.
Drop Out to Full-Time Apprentice – Julian Martinez
At age 16, Julian Martinez decided to drop out of high school. After working part-time jobs for three years and struggling to make ends meet, Julian realized he needed to learn a skill. He enrolled in a GED prep course at Clay County Adult & Community Education, and with willpower and persistence, he passed the GED exam. Through Julian’s connections at Clay County Adult & Community Education, he learned about the Northeast Florida Builders Association Apprenticeship Program and enrolled as an electrical apprentice. His apprenticeship allowed him to receive on-the-job training while being paid an hourly wage at T&M Electric, Inc. in Orange Park. Apprentices obtain a certification at the completion of the program, helping Julian take the next step in his journey to becoming a master electrician.
Leading with Hands-On Perseverance – Printella Bankhead
As a child, Printella Bankhead was told she couldn’t succeed, but she never let those words get in the way of her career ambition. Printella’s path was not easy, as she attended school, worked a job and cared for her young daughters as a single mother. Her background in security and criminal justice led Printella to open EBS Security in 2002. The COVID-19 pandemic majorly impacted EBS Security due to event and contract cancellations. Printella persevered by establishing new safety protocols, and she even suited up and worked on site with her team. Printella has been awarded the 2015 SBA Minority Business Person of the Year and the 2022 Jax Chamber Small Business Leader of the Year.
Transferable Skills Aid in Career Shift – Isaiah Oliver
Isaiah Oliver earned his bachelor’s degree in graphic design and art history, and he dreamed of working for an advertising agency or newspaper. After graduating, Isaiah couldn’t find a job in those fields, so he pivoted to a career in education. He grew his communication and relationship-building skills and eventually joined the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, Michigan. As CEO of this organization, Isaiah played a leading role in helping the Flint community navigate a public health crisis. Isaiah is now the president of the Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. He credits his curiosity and problem-solving skills to his education and early career experience and emphasizes the importance of transferable skills and diversified interests.
Inspiration in the Unexpected – Ronald Garvin, Jr.
A powerhouse on the field, Ronald Garvin, Jr. enrolled at Belhaven University to play on the Blazers’ football team. However, after one semester, Ronald realized that he had lost his love for the game. Ronald transferred to Alcorn State University with the hopes of getting his life back on track. He attended classes at Alcorn State for a year and a half, but he was concerned about his finances and did not find satisfaction at his job. Finally, Ronald found the inspiration he needed when his dad purchased a semi-truck with a defunct engine. He and his dad decided to enroll into First Coast Technical College’s Diesel Systems Technician program together. The program prepared Ronald for his role as a Shop Technician III at Ring Power, where he enjoys solving problems and overcoming challenges.
Indecisive Student to Driven Worker – Tierra Watson
Tierra Watson was discouraged as high school graduation approached. All of her friends knew their next step in their career journeys, but Tierra didn’t know what she wanted to do. She decided to join the Year Up program, which provides weekly mentoring, a full-time internship and intensive job training through classroom learning at Florida State College of Jacksonville. Tierra initially did not stick with the program, but she re-enrolled after she could not find a satisfying job. Despite some untimely personal difficulties, Tierra powered through and completed the Year Up program. In fact, her drive and motivation made her stand out, and Tierra was able to transition to a full-time role with Bank of America after her internship.
These stories show many examples of failing forward. Those who dropped out of school or educational programs found success in work-based learning experiences. Others used their skills from previous job roles to lead organizations in unexpected ways. In each of these stories, the individuals faced and overcame challenges, resulting in success.
Just like these stories of Northeast Florida professionals, use the next time you fail as an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. The important lessons you learn from failing forward will shape you into a dedicated and optimistic leader. As you experience challenges in your professional journey, look to Earn Up for ideas, resources and inspiration.
