What Now? Navigating Life Beyond Success and Failure

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” - Winston S. Churchill

You've landed that coveted new job or faced the sting of being let go from your previous one. Perhaps you've sustained an injury while indulging in your favorite sport, putting your activities on hold for months. These scenarios provoke a common question: what now? It's a query that dances in my mind daily, a reflection of the ebb and flow of both my personal triumphs and setbacks.

The above quote strikes a chord with me, underscoring the transient nature of success and failure alike. "This too shall end" echoes a similar sentiment. So, amidst this flux, what truly matters? What steps do we take next? I find myself contemplating these questions, drawing from my own life experiences and career journeys.

Successes are undoubtedly fulfilling, serving as fuel for our ambitions. They propel us forward, instilling a sense of purpose. Yet, like the flip side of a coin, failure lurks, reminding us of life's unpredictability. Both are fleeting, leaving us at a crossroads—how do we proceed?

I've come to liken this sensation to "the new car" feeling. Initially exhilarating, success can eventually lose its luster, becoming mundane. However, if its acquisition plunges you into debt, it may evoke feelings of regret. In such moments, we're faced with a pivotal question: what's next? Do we cling to past glories, or do we embark on a quest for new endeavors, seeking fresh avenues for fulfillment?

On the flip side, failure confronts us with its own set of challenges. What constitutes failure varies from person to person—it could be a missed job opportunity, the end of a relationship, or even a minor mishap like spilling coffee on your shirt. In the aftermath of failure, the question of "now what" looms large. Do we dwell on grievances, seeking solace in blame and bitterness? Or do we choose to depart with grace, embracing the lessons embedded within our setbacks?

In my superintendent course at Texas State University, my professors emphasized the importance of departing with dignity and leaving things better than we found them. It's a philosophy that resonates deeply with me, encapsulating the essence of resilience and growth. Regardless of the circumstances, our choices determine our trajectory—the decision to learn from failure or to succumb to self-pity speaks volumes.

At the heart of it all lies the concept of choice. We possess the agency to navigate the turbulent waters of success and failure, to chart our course towards growth and fulfillment. Personally, I embrace failure as a catalyst for growth, viewing each stumble as an opportunity for self-improvement. While I harbor no regrets, I acknowledge the areas where I could have done better, be it as a teacher, a principal, a husband, or a father.

In my current venture as a coach and consultant, failure is a constant companion. Yet, it's through these setbacks that I hone my skills, refining my craft to better serve my clients. Whether it's coaching individuals through personal dilemmas or guiding organizations towards success, my passion and values remain unwavering. I am committed to excellence in all that I do, driven by a desire to uplift and empower those I serve.

So, what can I do for you? How can I help you navigate the uncertainty of "now what," guiding you towards a future brimming with possibility and purpose?