The saying “fall down seven times, get up eight” is a popular Japanese proverb that encapsulates the idea of resilience and perseverance. Truly a powerful proverb. It implies that no matter how many times we stumble or face setbacks, we should always find the strength to rise again. This proverb holds a valuable lesson for individuals facing challenges in their personal or professional lives. In this article, we will explore the deeper meaning behind this phrase and understand how it can inspire us to overcome adversity.
Life is full of ups and downs, and it is inevitable that we will face obstacles along our journey. The true measure of our character lies in how we respond to these challenges. Falling down is a metaphor for encountering difficulties or failures, while getting up symbolizes resilience and the ability to bounce back. The saying emphasizes the importance of not giving up, even when faced with repeated setbacks. It encourages us to keep pushing forward, learning from our mistakes, and finding the strength within ourselves to rise again.
Resilience is a key trait that enables individuals to face adversity head-on. It is the ability to adapt and recover from setbacks, using them as stepping stones towards personal growth. When we fall down, we have an opportunity to learn valuable lessons about ourselves and the world around us. Each time we get back up, we become stronger, wiser, and more resilient. This process of falling and rising builds our character and shapes our future success.
In my own personal life journey, when I was retrenched 19 months and counting, I had to hold on to this proverb to keep me focused. Is it easy to do? No it is not, but the process requires you to shift your mindset to a Growth Mindset where you believe that even if you struggle with challenges, they are not set in stone.
How Do You Develop a Growth Mindset? See below:
- See challenges as opportunities
- Reflect each day on what youโve failed at and learned from
- Stop seeking approval from others
- Identify opportunities to celebrate the success of others
- Focus on rewarding actions not traits
- Start using the word โyetโ more often
This saying, โFall down 7 times and get up 8โ, teaches us a valuable and an important lesson about resilience and perseverance. It reminds us that setbacks are a natural part of life, but it is our response to these challenges that truly matters. By embracing failure as an opportunity for growth and learning, we can cultivate the strength to rise above any obstacle. So, the next time you find yourself facing a setback, remember this proverb and find the determination to get back up one more time.
ยฉ Michelle-Nichola Cockburn
Wo.Men to Wo.Men Services 