Sania Mirza opens up about accepting failure on the journey to success: ‘It’s not the result that matters, it is actually…’

Is this the right approach?

Dealing with failure is hard, and Neha Cadabam, a psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospital, told indianexpress.com that repeated professional setbacks can have a profound and lasting impact on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. “Research has shown that chronic stress, a common consequence of repeated failures, can lead to a cascade of negative effects. Elevated cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone, can disrupt sleep patterns, impair cognitive function, and even compromise the immune system,” she explained.

According to her, repeated failures can erode self-esteem and confidence, leading to a negative self-perception and an increased risk of developing mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. “The constant pressure to perform and the emotional toll of repeated setbacks can also lead to burnout, a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion,” she said, adding that burnout is characterised by feelings of cynicism, detachment, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.

Sania Mirza is a tennis legend (Source: Instagram/@mirzasaniar)

Bouncing back from repeated failures requires a combination of practical strategies and a resilient mindset, said Cadabam. “One effective approach is reframing failure as feedback, viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth. This shift in perspective can help individuals maintain motivation and avoid a downward spiral of negativity.”

What are some other strategies?

Journaling for insight: The act of journaling can be a powerful tool for unraveling the inner critic’s patterns. Documenting these self-critical thoughts provides a tangible record, revealing recurrent themes and triggers.

Cultivating self-compassion: Enhancing self-compassion is a pivotal strategy in addressing the inner critic. This involves treating oneself with the same kindness, understanding, and support that one would offer to a dear friend facing similar challenges.

Positive affirmations: Encouraging the use of positive affirmations helps counteract negative self-talk. Creating and repeating affirmations that emphasise one’s strengths and abilities. Consistent practice can gradually shift the inner narrative towards a more positive outlook.

Setting realistic standards: Set achievable and realistic goals. Perfectionism often fuels the inner critic, so learning to embrace the idea that nobody is perfect and that mistakes are a natural part of growth is crucial for silencing self-critical thoughts.

Non-reactive response: It is paramount not to act impulsively based on the inner critic’s judgment. Self-compassion, as practiced, allows you to refrain from self-criticism and instead respond with kindness and patience.