Failure Quote by Paul Tough
““the best way for a young person to build character is for him to attempt something where there is a real and serious possibility of failure. In a high-risk endeavor, whether it’s in business or athletics or the arts, you are more likely to experience colossal defeat than in a low-risk one—but you’re also more likely to achieve real and original success. “The idea of building grit and building self-control is that you get that through failure,” Randolph explained. “And in most highly academic environments in the United States, no one fails anything.””
About This Quote
Source Book: How Children Succeed, Paul Tough, 2012
Facing high‑risk challenges forces young people to confront possible failure, which builds grit, self‑control, and the capacity for genuine achievement.
In simple terms: Risk teaches resilience and real success.
Key Takeaway
Embrace challenging tasks to grow.
Themes
grit
risk
growth
resilience
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
motivational
educational
When to use this quote
- starting a business
- competitive sports
- artistic projects
- academic pursuits
- entrepreneurial ventures
Key Concepts
psychology
education
character development
Questions to Reflect On
- What risks could you take to develop grit?
- How can you create a safety net for failure?
A Different Perspective
Failure can damage confidence if not supported by mentorship.
