Take a Risk: Fail Forward

By Kate Bennett, PsyD

In our society, individuals are haunted by the fear of failure. Paralyzed by doing the wrong thing and assuming the worst about how that mistake will be viewed by others. One of my favorite quotes to share with clients is:

“Experiences is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward.” 

Vernon Law

Growth and achievement are the result of learning from mistakes and moving forward with valuable information. Make 2014 a year of failing forward. Take a chance and see where you land. If you fall, reflect on the lessons learned and move forward with the new information. Accept the mistake and let go. Living in the past, reliving the mistake, will keep you stuck in that moment and will perpetuate the fear of failure. Letting go and moving forward, living in the present, will allow you to grow, achieve, and succeed with time.

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Holiday Challenge: A Gift of Mindfulness

By Kate Bennett, PsyD

While the holidays are intended to be a time of hope, connection, and joy, these calendar events often mark feelings of stress, loneliness, and disconnect. Rather than get caught up in the hustle and bustle of a busy holiday season, take a minute to enjoy the present moment. People often forget that they have a choice in feeling “stressed.” While a finite amount of anxiety helps individuals to prepare for action, too much anxiety (stress) interferes both with task completion and quality of the experience. With that in mind, Athlete Insight challenges you to take a deep breath, let go of the stress, and ground yourself in the moment. To be present and connect with whoever or whatever you are doing. Feeling “stressed” certainly does not accomplish anything faster but will hamper the ride. Give yourself a gift of clarity and connection through a mindful moment this holiday season.