Lessons from Skiing Failure: How Failure can Lead to Success

Introduction:

Some of the most valuable lessons we learn in life come from our failures. It is through failure that we gain insight, grow, and ultimately achieve success. In this article, we will explore a personal story of failure and the lessons learned from it. Specifically, we will discuss the author’s experience as a ski instructor and how failing a certification course ultimately led to success.

The Desire to Become a Level 2 Ski Instructor:

In 1990, the author became a certified Level 1 ski instructor in Canada. Eager to advance their skills and become a Level 2 instructor, they decided to take the Level 2 certification course. The Level 2 certification was highly esteemed, and achieving it required a strong skiing level and technique.

The Grueling Level 2 Ski Instructor Course:

The Level 2 certification course proved to be a grueling and demanding program. Conducted by Level 4 instructors, who are considered ski gods in Canada, the course involved intensive five-day sessions both on and off the snow. The instructors constantly evaluated the candidates, making the experience highly challenging.

Identifying Weaknesses and Failing the Course:

During the Level 2 course, the author discovered weaknesses in their skiing technique, specifically on the steep black diamond slopes and in executing short radius turns. Unfortunately, these weaknesses led to their failure in the course. While disappointing, this failure also served as a valuable lesson and highlighted the areas they needed to improve.

Using Failure as a Teacher:

Rather than allowing the failure to discourage them, the author used it as motivation to work on their weaknesses. They dedicated an entire ski season to intensive training on the black diamond slopes and perfecting their short radius turns. By focusing on these specific techniques during their frequent ski days, they prepared themselves for the Level 2 retest.

Unexpected Challenges and Overcoming Anxiety:

The Level 2 retest took place at a larger ski resort, which presented new and unexpected challenges. In addition to black diamond slopes, the resort also had double black diamonds, including the infamous slope called “Elevator Shaft.” As part of the retest, candidates were required to ski down the intimidating “Elevator Shaft” three times in front of the course conductors. The pressure and anxiety were immense.

Success Finally Comes:

Despite the daunting challenges, the author managed to ski well enough to pass the Level 2 program. Their intensive training and dedication paid off, and they achieved their goal of becoming a Level 2 ski instructor. This success would not have been possible without the initial failure and the valuable lessons learned from it.

Applying the Lessons to Life:

The experience of using failure as a teaching tool extends beyond skiing. The process can be applied to any area of life where one aims to reach a higher level or skill. Accepting failures and learning from them is crucial for growth and eventual success. It is through failure that we identify our weaknesses, develop resilience, and gain the knowledge necessary to achieve our goals.

Conclusion:

Failure can be a powerful teacher if we allow it to be. The author’s experience as a ski instructor highlights the importance of embracing failure and using it as a stepping stone to success. By recognizing weaknesses, dedicating time and effort to improve, and maintaining a growth mindset, we can learn from failure and ultimately achieve our desired goals. So, the next time you encounter failure on your path to success, remember that it is an opportunity for growth and learning.