Page Chen Three consecutive failures — on my exams, in the singing contest, and once again in the story competition — have been enough to keep me awake in the dead silent night, pondering necessary changes. No fire can burn forever, but it can be reignited with additional fuel. Similarly, during times of frustration and uncertainty about my future, reflections are necessary to clear my mind and help me find the path forward. I used to hold high expectations for myself. Driven by a strong sense of purpose and a hunger for success, I’ve always maintained self-discipline to strive for excellence in all my endeavors. However, the series of setbacks has altered my mindset. I began to consider that external factors may significantly influence the outcomes of my efforts, leading me to fret about potential failures. In the depth of the silent night, it dawned on me that courage was what I needed. Having high expectations of oneself demands being prepared for failures. If one worries about falling off a bicycle, they cannot ride at their fastest; if they fear cracking their voice while singing, they cannot sing with full strength. Only those unafraid of failure can unleash their full potential and achieve the best results. Research has indicated that individuals with an internal locus of control tend to succeed more often, and there’s a reason for this. These individuals, with strong determination, do not blame external factors like “shabby microphone” for their singing contest failure. Instead of fixating on uncontrollable events, they concentrate on their efforts, believing in their capabilities and giving their all. It is wise not to set excessively high expectations for ourselves to the point of arrogance. Pride often leads to failure, and when it occurs, the impact is harsher than necessary. As a wise person once said, “Just try and see what we can do.” This mindset allows for continual improvement. Falling is a natural part of seeking balance, although no one desires it. Some may hesitate when contemplating embarking on a new endeavor, fearing they aren’t fully prepared. However, readiness is never absolute; each small step taken will bring us closer to our goals. | 