“What’s some advice I’d give someone younger?” Probably this: “When at first you don’t succeed, try and try again” is only half true. Because sometimes? You have to move on.
A few years ago, I entered a writing competition — one of those big, career‑changing ones that promises a publishing contract and a whole lot of hope. I made the first cut. But. I didn’t make the second cut. Not because of my writing, but because I made a technical mistake: my real name was included in the pitch, and the rules were crystal clear that nothing identifying the author could appear anywhere.
Rules are rules, and I get it. But the seven‑year‑old in me (and honestly, the forty‑year‑old too) wanted to stomp around about how unfair it felt. I wanted to berate myself for not slowing down, not catching the detail, not being perfect — which, frankly, is the story of my life.
But here’s the advice: sometimes failure isn’t a sign to “try harder.” Sometimes it’s a sign you’re playing the wrong game. And sometimes, it’s a sign to slow down.
“If no mistake you made, yet losing you are … a different game you should play.” ~ Yoda
Today’s post inspired by the WordPress daily prompt: What’s the best advice you’d give to someone younger than you? Cover image created with Google AI.
If this spoke to you, be sure to “like” and share it over social with someone who’d appreciate the flavor …
DISCLAIMER: These are my personal experiences and opinions. Nothing here is medical, nutritional, or therapeutic advice. Also, I’m a writer and an editor. And I try my best to make sure every post is articulate and free from errors. However, being that I edit my own work—and it’s next to impossible to properly edit your own work—I admit, occasionally there may be an error or two I miss. But doing so doesn’t make me an idiot so don’t be mean. Just smile, pat yourself on the back for finding an error and be glad you’re not the only one who makes mistakes sometimes … xoxox
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