courage
These days I’ve been comparing two ways people tried to encourage me before my driving test:
Telling me everything would be okay and that I would definitely pass.
Telling me that failing is normal and that there is always another opportunity to try again.
Only the second one worked. It filled my heart with strength.
I think what keeps me moving forward is the feeling that failure is okay, and remembering how my spirit recovered from similar situations. What I don't want is the regret of not even trying. What would paralyze me the most is not only the fear of failure, but also the fear of not being able to handle it well and not getting back up afterward, along with the shame of being seen as a disappointment and the fear of being mocked.
Naturally it depends on the situation, but overall, I don't like relying on the idea that everything will be a success. Some inspirational stories emphasize positive thinking a lot, even smiling through misery. That can also be a sign of strength, and people deal with problems in different ways. But as someone who spent most of my life unable to show vulnerability, I think I also admire people who openly get upset and cry when they feel like it, yet still keep moving forward without giving up... Anyway, I passed the test and got my driver's license. Now I can finally play Forza Horizon.