Failure is one of the most feared concepts in our society. It’s associated with shame, embarrassment, and self-doubt. But what if we started to look at failure differently? What if, instead of viewing it as a dead end, we saw it as a launchpad? That’s the essence of failing upwards—using failure as a catalyst for growth, reinvention, and long-term success.
In the world of career development and personal growth, failing upwards isn’t about celebrating mediocrity or encouraging recklessness. It's about embracing the lessons that come from falling short, and then using those lessons to climb higher. With platforms like Roots Inspire leading the way in mentorship and career development, this mindset is becoming more accessible and powerful than ever.
What Does It Mean to Fail Upwards?
Failing upwards means turning failure into forward momentum. It’s not about failing and staying down—it’s about failing, reflecting, and rising with more wisdom than before. Many of the world’s most successful people have “failed” at some point, often spectacularly. Oprah Winfrey was fired from her first television job. Steve Jobs was ousted from Apple. J.K. Rowling faced countless rejections before Harry Potter became a phenomenon.
These stories remind us that failure is not the opposite of success—it is part of the journey to it.
The Psychology of Failure
When we fail, our first instinct might be to retreat, to hide, or to give up. But research in psychology and behavioral science shows that our mindset plays a huge role in how we respond. A fixed mindset sees failure as proof of inadequacy. A growth mindset, however, views failure as an opportunity to learn and evolve.
Shifting your perspective on failure can transform your entire career trajectory. It turns “I’m not good enough” into “I’m learning how to get better.” This is the foundation of failing upwards.
How to Fail Upwards in Your Career
Failing upwards is not a fluke—it’s a deliberate approach. Here’s how you can practice it in your own career:
1. Reflect Without Shame
After a setback, take time to evaluate what happened. What worked? What didn’t? What would you do differently next time? Avoid blaming others or wallowing in guilt. Instead, treat the experience as data. The most resilient professionals are those who mine their failures for gold.
2. Share the Lessons
Talking about failure can be empowering—for you and for others. In professional environments, vulnerability is often seen as a strength. By sharing your story, you show authenticity and leadership. Platforms like Roots Inspire foster these kinds of honest conversations through mentoring and career navigation. Their programs help individuals from underrepresented backgrounds gain clarity and confidence, even in the face of obstacles.
3. Seek Feedback and Mentorship
One of the most effective ways to grow from failure is through feedback. Constructive criticism can shine a light on blind spots you might not see yourself. Surround yourself with mentors who have walked the path before you. Roots Inspire does exactly that—connecting talent with industry leaders who provide guidance, support, and actionable insights.
4. Reframe the Narrative
Don’t define yourself by your setbacks. Reframe the story. You’re not the person who didn’t get the promotion—you’re the person who learned how to better position yourself for the next opportunity. Reframing failure changes how you see yourself and how others see you.
5. Stay in Motion
One of the key principles of failing upwards is persistence. After failure, many people stall. But momentum is your ally. Keep moving—whether it’s by learning a new skill, applying for a new role, or taking on a challenging project. Action creates clarity and breeds confidence.
The Role of Inclusive Platforms in Failing Upwards
For many professionals—especially those from underrepresented communities—failure can feel even more personal. A lack of mentorship, visibility, or access can compound the impact of setbacks. That’s why platforms like Roots Inspire are crucial. They help diverse professionals build leadership skills, gain exposure, and receive the mentorship necessary to not just survive failure—but thrive after it.
Roots Inspire empowers individuals by providing a safe, guided space to grow through challenges. Their mentorship model encourages reflective thinking, leadership readiness, and resilience—three ingredients essential to failing upwards.
Real Success Isn’t Linear
We often imagine success as a straight line: school, job, promotion, corner office. But in reality, it’s messy. It’s full of missteps, side turns, and moments of doubt. The most successful people embrace that. They know that failure is part of the equation. It builds character, sharpens vision, and fuels innovation.
Look at any top-performing executive, entrepreneur, or changemaker, and you’ll find a history of bumps, bruises, and bold recoveries. Failing upwards is about learning how to fall well—and rise wiser.
Final Thoughts: Turn Every Fall into Flight
Failure is not the end of the road—it’s a signpost. It tells you what doesn’t work, and nudges you toward what does. The key is to respond with courage, curiosity, and a willingness to grow.
Whether you’re at the start of your career or leading a team, adopting the mindset of failing upwards can redefine what success looks like. And with the right resources—like the guidance offered by Roots Inspire—you don’t have to navigate the path alone.
Remember: every fall holds the seed of a future rise. Failing upwards is about turning that seed into something extraordinary.