Today I experienced one of my academic fears come to life and I’m happy to say, ‘you know, it doesn’t feel that bad.’

The failure: I worked like crazy and still failed a math exam.

So, why don’t I feel like stepping in front of a bus? Well, the answer is kind of simple. As I returned to school, I knew completing my math requirement for my major would be the crux. I had put off my return to school because of it. I didn’t want to go back and fail at it and have that be the thing that would separate me from a degree. So I failed at my first exam attempt, and this is what I’ve learned about myself.

First, despite failing, I feel like I learned a lot. If I were to take the same exam again, I would do better. Even if I do have to take this same class again, I will have an easier time and I will get through it. Math is not going to stop me.

Second, I feel really empowered. The tougher the math, the more applicable it is to my day to day life as a GM. Cubic regressions, derivatives and instant rates of change, and more all have awesome applications in my day to day life. Even if I didn’t get the grade I wanted, the knowledge that I have (and a bit more time than what I get on exams) will allow me to apply my brain differently to the challenges I face professionally.

So all in all, I don’t think anyone likes to fail. But the willingness to fail will offer you a lot.

What about you? What subject is stopping you from returning to school?

(photo credit: uckhet)