Motivational Speech | Shashi Tharoor | More Failure Leads To More Success

Summary

In this insightful speech, the speaker discusses the role of failure in achieving success, particularly in the context of intense competition in India. Reflecting on a personal setback while running for Secretary General of the United Nations, the speaker emphasizes that failure is often beyond one's control and should be viewed as an opportunity for growth. Drawing from personal experience and wisdom from cultural teachings, the speaker encourages resilience, the importance of doing one's best, and the need to learn from failure to eventually achieve success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Failure is inevitable in life, and no one who achieves success has escaped it.
• 😀 In India, failure is often seen negatively due to intense competition, but it's a natural part of life.
• 😀 The speaker's first major failure occurred when he didn't secure the position of Secretary General of the UN, despite his qualifications.
• 😀 Sometimes, failure is not about personal inadequacy but due to uncontrollable circumstances, such as political decisions.
• 😀 After losing the UN election, the speaker chose to leave rather than remain in a position that could overshadow the winner.
• 😀 Failure often opens doors to new opportunities and paths, as it did for the speaker when it led him to Indian politics.
• 😀 There is wisdom in the cliche that when life shuts a door, you should try to open a window.
• 😀 The speaker encourages embracing failure as a lesson and advises that if you do your best, you cannot reproach yourself for failing.
• 😀 It’s important to demonstrate resilience after failure, showing others that you will rise and succeed the next time.
• 😀 A valuable life lesson is to not show weakness or defeat in the face of failure, as others may derive satisfaction from seeing you suffer.

Q & A

What is the speaker's main message about failure?

The speaker emphasizes that failure is an inevitable part of life, especially for those who achieve success. Failure should not be hidden or feared but rather understood as a learning opportunity and part of the journey towards future success.

How does the speaker relate the concept of failure to his personal experience?

The speaker shares his own experience of failing in his bid for Secretary General of the United Nations. Despite his qualifications and preparation, he was defeated due to factors beyond his control, highlighting how circumstances can influence outcomes.

What does the speaker suggest about the way we view failure in Indian society?

In Indian society, failure is often viewed negatively due to intense competition and a cultural focus on success. The speaker reflects on how this can create pressure to avoid failure at all costs.

What lesson did the speaker learn from his failure to become UN Secretary General?

The speaker learned that failure is not always due to personal shortcomings or lack of effort. Instead, it often arises from external factors, such as political decisions, that are beyond one’s control.

How does the speaker suggest individuals should approach failure?

The speaker advises individuals to do their best and not reproach themselves for circumstances beyond their control. He encourages seeing failure as a lesson and an opportunity for growth rather than a definitive end.

What did the speaker do after losing his bid for UN Secretary General?

After his defeat, the speaker declined an invitation to stay at the UN and chose to return to India, eventually entering politics. He credits his name recognition gained from the failed bid as a factor that helped him secure a political career.

What is the significance of the phrase 'failure is an opportunity' according to the speaker?

The speaker believes that every failure opens up new possibilities. In his case, his loss led to a political career that he might not have had otherwise. Failure provides opportunities for self-reflection and new paths that may not have been considered before.

What is the value of resilience in the face of failure, as discussed by the speaker?

Resilience is crucial when facing failure. The speaker shares that how quickly you rise after a fall is more important than the fall itself. Resilience demonstrates one's ability to continue striving for success despite setbacks.

How does the speaker view the concept of 'failure better'?

The speaker references the idea that failure should not be seen as a defeat but as a lesson to learn from. He quotes a sports figure who suggests that each failure can help you 'fail better,' implying that each setback brings a better understanding and a refined approach for future attempts.

What does the speaker mean by 'be the best you that you can be'?

The speaker encourages individuals to recognize their unique talents and potential. Success is about striving to be the best version of oneself, not comparing oneself to others. By understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses, one can set realistic and meaningful goals.