Failure creeps into every aspect of life, from a losing streak in sports to academia or in relationships. However, after its seemingly unbearable and sporadic visits, failure provides opportunities for greater accomplishments.

Everyone aims for immediate success, but as no one is perfect, disappointment is certain. It is not shocking that failure receives negative connotations, yet setbacks can be an obscure path to success. Failure forces one to prioritize goals and desires. Aspirations may emerge or re-emerge to reveal the necessary steps for success.

It seems easy enough, yet many harness disappointments to make self-improvement possible. Although defeat is difficult to recover from or forget, it is revocable. According to the Old Testament, David committed adultery, repented and was forgiven (2 Samuel 12:12-14). Despite his mistake, he remains associated with moral integrity and known as a man after God’s own heart.

Failure has the ability to enhance motivation. Quarterback Peyton Manning did not make it to the final round of the NFL playoffs despite his regular season statistics. Various sport talk show hosts deemed him an excellent player, but predicted he would never win the “Big Game.”

In the AFC Championship of the 2006-07 playoffs, the Indianapolis Colts were down 21-6 at half to New England. Announcers foresaw another post-season loss for the record-breaking quarterback. Yet despite an injured thumb, Manning led his team to a come-from-behind victory and a Super Bowl XLI victory on Feb. 4.

While Manning?s talent contributed to his success, his perseverance clinched it. If he surrendered to self-pity, his leadership would have been questioned and previous accomplishments short-lived.

Failure is an opportunity for success. It is ultimately defined by motivation and will. The phrase ?you can accomplish anything if you believe in yourself? seems foolish because tasks sometimes seem impossible to achieve. However, refusing to attempt them out of fear will cause regret and result in a greater failure.