Three types of failing:

Exit Fails happen when you start something worthwhile, realize it’s harder than you thought it would be, and exit quietly out the backdoor. It’s as if the mind says, “If we leave quietly now, no one will know I started in on this project and couldn't figure it out. Hurry, let’s beat it, before someone notices!”

Escape Fails happen when it’s too late for Exit Failing… people know what you’re up to. So the mind comes up with highly rational-sounding justifications for no longer pursuing the goal: “We decided this is no longer a priority.”

But it’s Avoidance Fails that are the worst of all: we don't even start, and then learn nothing from the attempt. Avoidance Failing sounds like, “There’s just no way that’s possible.” “That’s never been done before.” “We’re safer being conservative.” “There is no way I could ever ____.” or even more cunning, not even dreaming up the Big Idea to begin with.


These three types of fails are the night-robber of your life’s dreams.

Be on watch.