What Studies Show About Those Who Fail and Keep Trying Anyway
Failure is something everyone experiences in life.
For some people, failure becomes a stopping point.
For others, it turns into a stepping stone.
Many studies show that those who fail but keep trying anyway often achieve greater success, build resilience, and live more fulfilling lives.
In this article, we will explore what research says about persistence, and why failure is not the end. Further, how continuing despite setbacks can completely change the course of life.
Why Failure is a Natural Part of Success
First of all, it is important to understand that failure is not a sign of weakness.
Instead, it is evidence that someone has tried.
According to a study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, people who face setbacks learn more deeply compared to those who succeed easily.
The brain treats failure as feedback, which sharpens problem-solving skills.
Next, we must realize that failure is unavoidable in any meaningful journey.
For example, Thomas Edison failed over 1,000 times before inventing the lightbulb.
Yet, he saw each failure as a lesson.
He once said, “I have not failed.
I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
This mindset is exactly what separates those who give up from those who keep going.
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The Psychology Behind Persistence After Failure
When people fail and keep trying anyway, psychologists call it grit.
Angela Duckworth, a leading researcher on grit, defines it as passion and perseverance toward long-term goals.
Her studies show that grit is a stronger predictor of success than intelligence, talent, or even social class.
In fact, although many people believe that natural talent determines success, research consistently proves otherwise.
What matters most is the ability to continue after setbacks.
This persistence builds self-discipline, sharpens focus, and strengthens motivation.
How Failure Builds Emotional Strength
Failure does not just test skills, it tests emotions too.
However, those who keep trying learn to manage disappointment better.
A study in Personality and Social Psychology Review found that repeated failure helps people regulate emotions more effectively over time.
Although it may feel painful in the moment, each failure trains the mind to handle pressure and stress.
Eventually, setbacks become less frightening, and challenges turn into opportunities for growth.
This emotional strength later helps in personal relationships, career struggles, and even health challenges.
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Why Failure Often Leads to Innovation
Another reason failure is valuable is that it sparks creativity.
Research from Stanford University shows that people who fail are forced to look for new solutions, which leads to innovation.
For instance, the inventor James Dyson created 5,126 failed prototypes before producing his successful vacuum cleaner.
Each failure guided him closer to the right design. Without persistence, his idea would have died early.
So, instead of thinking of failure as wasted effort, we should see it as an investment in learning and discovery.
The Science of “Failing Forward”
Next, let us explore the concept of failing forward.
Studies in educational psychology prove that mistakes actually improve memory and understanding.
When students attempt and fail, they remember information better compared to those who never take risks.
In the workplace, companies like Google and Amazon encourage failing forward by experimenting often.
Although some projects collapse, the lessons learned shape future successes.
This principle applies to life too.
Each failure is a rehearsal for eventual achievement.
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Why Quitting Too Soon Prevents Success
Although failing is normal, giving up completely is what prevents growth.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania revealed that people who give up after the first major setback are less likely to reach long-term goals compared to those who persist.
At last, we must remember that failure is not permanent unless we stop trying.
Many successful entrepreneurs, writers, and athletes are those who simply refused to quit, even when the odds looked impossible.
Real-Life Examples of Persistence After Failure
Let us now look at some powerful real-life examples that prove persistence matters more than early success.
- J.K. Rowling – Before publishing the Harry Potter series, she was rejected by 12 publishers. If she had quit after those rejections, millions of readers would never have known her magical world.
- Michael Jordan – He was once cut from his high school basketball team. However, he turned failure into motivation and became one of the greatest players in history.
- Walt Disney – He was fired from a newspaper job because he “lacked imagination.” Later, he created one of the most imaginative companies in the world.
Although their stories are inspiring, what they truly teach us is that success is not about avoiding failure but continuing after it.
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What Happens in the Brain When We Keep Trying
Studies in neuroscience reveal that persistence physically changes the brain.
When we keep trying after failure, new neural connections form, making us smarter and more capable over time.
This process is called neuroplasticity.
Next, when we succeed after repeated failures, the brain releases stronger doses of dopamine, the “reward chemical.”
This makes success feel more satisfying and motivates us to keep pushing.
In other words, the struggle makes victory sweeter.
How Failure Shapes Character and Humility
Failure also teaches humility.
Those who succeed without struggle may become overconfident.
However, those who experience setbacks learn patience, empathy, and understanding.
For example, a leader who has failed in the past often leads with more compassion because they know what it feels like to struggle.
At last, this humility creates stronger relationships and communities.
Why Society Respects Those Who Keep Trying
People admire stories of persistence because they reflect courage.
Although we live in a world that often celebrates instant success, deep down, everyone knows life is full of struggles.
That is why movies, biographies, and news stories about people who failed but never gave up always inspire us.
They remind us that perseverance is more powerful than luck.
How to Train Yourself to Keep Trying
Now that we understand why persistence matters, the next question is: how can we build it in our own lives? Studies suggest a few practical methods:
- Reframe failure as feedback – Instead of saying, “I failed,” say, “I learned something new.”
- Set smaller goals – Break big challenges into smaller, achievable steps.
- Celebrate progress – Even small improvements deserve recognition.
- Surround yourself with supportive people – Encouragement makes it easier to keep trying.
- Practice self-compassion – Forgive yourself for mistakes and focus on the next step.
Although these steps sound simple, consistent practice will build resilience over time.
The Link Between Persistence and Long-Term Happiness
Interestingly, studies also show that persistence after failure is linked to happiness.
According to research published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, people who pursue goals despite setbacks report higher life satisfaction.
This happens because achievement after struggle creates a deeper sense of purpose.
So, failing and continuing is not just about success—it is also about joy and meaning.
Why Children Should Be Taught to Embrace Failure
Next, let us consider the importance of teaching persistence to children.
Many schools and parents unintentionally punish failure.
However, psychologists say children who are allowed to fail and try again develop stronger problem-solving skills.
Although protecting children from failure feels kind, it actually prevents them from building resilience.
Therefore, giving them safe opportunities to fail prepares them for bigger challenges in adulthood.
The Role of Culture in Attitudes Toward Failure
Not all societies view failure the same way.
In some cultures, failure is seen as shameful. In others, it is celebrated as part of growth.
For example, in Silicon Valley, the culture of startups values “failing fast” because it means learning quickly.
However, in other countries, failure may carry stigma, which discourages risk-taking.
At last, we must adopt the healthier perspective: failure is not shameful but a sign of courage.
Why Success Feels Better After Failure
Success without failure can feel empty, while success after failure feels deeply rewarding.
Research in motivation science proves that overcoming obstacles creates a stronger emotional connection to goals.
Although the road may be longer, those who fail and keep trying often appreciate their achievements more than those who succeed effortlessly.
How to Stay Motivated After Repeated Failures
Staying motivated after multiple failures is difficult, but not impossible. Experts recommend strategies like:
- Visualizing the bigger picture – Remind yourself why you started.
- Learning from role models – Read stories of people who succeeded after failure.
- Focusing on growth, not perfection – Progress matters more than flawless results.
- Taking breaks when needed – Resting prevents burnout.
Next, always remember that failure is temporary, but quitting is permanent.
The Spiritual Side of Persistence
For many, persistence after failure is also a spiritual journey.
Although science focuses on psychology and biology, spiritual traditions emphasize faith, patience, and trust.
At last, whether through religion, meditation, or philosophy, many people find deeper strength when they see failure as part of a bigger plan.
Why You Should Fail Boldly and Keep Going
Failure is not something to fear—it is something to embrace.
Studies, stories, and personal experiences all prove the same lesson: those who fail but keep trying anyway achieve more, grow stronger, and inspire others.
Although failure may hurt in the moment, it is not the end.
It is the beginning of wisdom, resilience, and eventually, success.
So, the next time you fail, do not quit.
Instead, remind yourself that persistence is the secret ingredient that separates winners from quitters.
At last, remember this: every great success story is also a story of failure—and yours can be too.
Conclusion on What Studies Show About Those Who Fail and Keep Trying Anyway
Research consistently shows that failure is not the end of progress but often the foundation of resilience, growth, and long-term success.
Those who persist after setbacks develop greater problem-solving skills, emotional strength, and adaptive thinking.
Instead of viewing failure as evidence of inadequacy, studies highlight it as a critical step in learning, innovation, and eventual achievement.
The key difference between those who stagnate and those who succeed lies not in avoiding failure, but in how they respond to it.
Ultimately, perseverance in the face of repeated obstacles transforms failure from a stumbling block into a stepping stone toward lasting success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to keep trying in spite of failure?
It is important to keep trying in spite of failure because every setback teaches valuable lessons that bring you closer to success. Persistence builds resilience, sharpens skills, and ensures that failure becomes a stepping stone instead of a stopping point.
What are some success stories of those who failed?
Amitabh Bachchan faced multiple rejections early in his career and was even told his voice was not fit for radio, yet he went on to become one of India’s greatest film legends. Similarly, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam failed to achieve his dream of becoming a fighter pilot but rose to become the “Missile Man of India” and later the President of the nation.
Is it true that failure leads to success?
Yes, failure often leads to success because it provides lessons, experience, and resilience that success alone cannot teach. Each setback becomes a guide, showing what doesn’t work and paving the way toward what eventually will.
