Celebrating Failure

1) This semester I had the opportunity to mentor elementary kids at a local elementary school in Gainesville. During my first day of elementary school, I met my mentee whom had trouble speaking to me. I saw the rest of my co-mentors who were helping other students with homework and such having a blast with their mentee. Me, on the other hand, was trying to speak with my mentee, but he refused to talk to me. He would just nod his head and gave very subtle answers, such as "mhm". During my thirty minute time period, I just had to ask him, "what is going on in your house?"... He answered, "my brother is dying". I noticed that this was a sudden change in his life and helped him the best I could. I knew it was not me, but something that was going on his family.

2) I learned that body language is the best way to know when something is wrong. Also, people have ongoing problems in their home and act differently to people when it becomes frequently. A drastic change can change a person's behavior. It is always great to help the community, especially in times like this.

3) I think failure is a sign of learning – learning that one can fix this mistake. If we don't overcome failure, we will achieve the same mistake. I believe failure creates a balance in life for everyone. I handle failure behaviorally by fixing my mistake and changing my attitude. I believe this leads me to become a better person. I am more likely to take risks because I will learn not to do it again. I believe it does not hurt to try it, especially if your gut is telling you to do it. This class has taught me to speak to more people and talk about my business strategies. In the end, I was proud that I listened to my gut and got out of my comfort zone.