Here's how you can regain confidence and overcome self-doubt after failure in aviation.

I prefer not to use the word failure. You just mis-steped on one area of your job. "Aviation" is a broad word. If you're a pilot you may need to get some input from a senior pilot. If you're a ground crew member, reading the manual "T O" may be one answer. Look at this, you got the job so you must have the expertise. Hang tight 💪

Sometimes it's hard to pin down what exactly happened. This can be clarified by creating a timeline of events and decisions that lead up to what failed and can create a better understanding of the situation and where learning outcomes can found.

Don’t isolate yourself. Leverage your network within the aviation community for support and guidance. Colleagues who have faced similar setbacks can offer valuable insights and encouragement. Seeking mentorship from seasoned aviation professionals can provide coping strategies and help you navigate the complexities of the industry. Sharing your challenges and receiving feedback can be incredibly empowering, reinforcing that everyone encounters turbulence along their career path.

Once you have timeline of events and decisions you analyze the influences on those decisions. In hindsight it may be easy to know what decision should have been made. However, analyzing the lead-up to failure is about recognizing the symptoms of failure, so that in the future you can recognize them again. Always remember the external pressures that may not of been present in the moment, such financial pressure, time pressure, fatigue and stress that created that particular operational environment.

Take time to analyze what went wrong. Understanding the specific factors that contributed to the failure can turn a negative experience into a valuable learning opportunity. Ask yourself critical questions: Was there a lapse in communication? Did you lack certain knowledge or skills? Reflecting objectively helps in identifying the root causes and learning from them, rather than dwelling on the mistake itself.

Retracing the operation with an instructor or supervisor can add valuable insight to where the failure occurred and give strategies to prevent it in the future. This is also a really good way to get back in saddle.

Goals define what we want to achieve, but systems determine the path we take to get there. By concentrating on the process, we not only make our goals more attainable but also transform our daily actions into meaningful habits that lead to continuous improvement. This process-oriented approach nurtures resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset, all of which are essential for long-term success and fulfillment. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the magnitude of your Goals, focus on what you can do today. Trust in the process, and the results will follow. lead you to achieve your goals, often surpassing your initial expectations.

Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Recognizing your achievements and milestones boosts morale and reinforces the positive changes you are making.

One of my favorite quotes: "Failure isn't failure if a lesson from it's learned" - Garth Brooks. If you learn from it, the failure is another step toward success.