The liberating effect of failure - May. 29, 2008

The liberating effect of failure - May. 29, 2008: "What else do successful rebounders do?

They create a new purpose. Many people think that prominent people rebound because they're wealthy and have access to resources and great connections - or luck. No, it's the conscious choices they make.

Who rebounded by crafting a new purpose?

Martha Stewart. She saw the frothing glee of people who wanted to bring her down, and rather than be frightened and chastened by that glee, it only motivated her more. She focused on defining herself by her future, her comeback.

What's the No. 1 reason business bigwigs fail to deal with failure properly?

They're afraid of looking weak. Everyone can learn from [JetBlue (JBLU) founder] David Neeleman, who has had the rug pulled out from under him a few times. He has the confidence to ask questions about how to do things differently. And he knows that if he's going to be a maverick, failure is going to be a cost. He's comfortable talking about his setbacks and he's proud of his Protean-like resilience.

Your parting wisdom, Jeff?

People who fail should feel liberated. They've already failed. Get over it! To top of page"