Rachel responding to JK Rowling: Benefits of Failure

JK Rowling is known for her captivating characters and imaginative storylines, but in this talk she addresses the graduating class of Harvard on the benefits of failure. Rowling describes her personal life struggles as an “extended tunnel”.  The benefits of her failure are summarized below and can be perceived as the “light at the end of the tunnel”.

1.       Gain determination

2.       Discover  the essential things that matter in life

3.       Rock bottom becomes foundation

4.       Taught things that cannot learn

5.       Strong will/ more discipline

6.       Secure in the ability to survive

7.       Know yourself

8.       Learn the strength of relationships

Rowland concludes that struggles are a true gift and that setbacks make you wiser and stronger.

Initial feelings associated with failure often come in the form of negative emotions; sadness, anger, depression, regret, stress, blame, etc.  Parents, in particular, find difficulty in allowing children to experience anything unpleasant.  In most instances, it is the parent’s goal to stand between their child and any failure, regardless of how big or small. The struggles described in Rowling’s talk are exactly what today’s parents want children to avoid. Her message may have been intended for college graduates, but should be viewed by moms and dads of all ages. As educators, we must remind parents that failure is inevitable; it will happen to their child. Avoidance is not the answer.

Presenting parents with the concept of “the light at the end of the tunnel” can reverse the negative perspective associated with failure.  Encouraging parents to reflect upon insights and lessons learned through their own personal struggles can also bring a new appreciation.

Another point of consideration for parents is that past failures can serve as a useful tool when navigating tough situations. Children, without these experiences, are placed at a disadvantage, as they will not have the personal connection in which to refer.

In addition to parent education, allowing students to experience failure within the classroom setting is one of most importance. It is here that the teacher can create dilemmas and model for students how to embrace difficulties, seek solutions and overcome challenges, which are all important life skills. Many of today’s students, without guidance and support, are ill-equipped to face failure. We must carefully and methodically assist them as they work through the problem solving process.  As educators, we must also remember to suppress frustration or impatience that we may feel when students appear reluctant to tackle tough situations.  Providing emotional support and encouragement in times of difficulty will also show students that the setting is low risk, making them more inclined to pursue challenges in the future.

In a country where perfect GPAs and high test scores are common place, high school students need a way to stand out amongst other competitive college applicants. Experience, attributed to struggle, is unique to each person.  Those, who have experienced struggle both inside and outside of the classroom, will have gained insight that cannot be replicated in any other way. Ironically, it is the failures of the past that will now serve as the catalyst for their future success.