Best selling author Seth Godin was interviewed by Bryan Elliott and discussed his thoughts on the importance of failing in order to succeed.   In the video below he talks about taking risks, challenging the status quo, and starting a business, all great ideas that Godin explores in great details in several of his books, like Poke the Box, Tribes and Purple Cow.

Godin is not afraid of admitting to his own failures.  In fact, he embraces them.  He truly believes that, as long as your failure is not fatal, the more you fail the better you will be prepared to succeed, as the lessons from failure are memorable and very impactful.   He explains how in today’s world it is so easy to start something that even if it fails, it is not fatal.

For those of you who have a job today but dream of starting your own business, pay close attention to the important definition highlighted by Godin.  He draws a sharp contrast between a freelancer and an entrepreneur:

“A freelancer is someone who gets paid for working… the more you work the more you get paid… an entrepreneur gets paid while asleep.  They build a business bigger than themselves.”

He also makes another very  important point that you should keep in mind:

“Take appropriate risks.  Risks that keep you in the game even if you fail.”

As Godin explains, Poke the Box is a permission to fail.  Notice how the book cover only has an icon, and no words whatsoever.  This is classic Godin, thinking outside the box, being different and standing out from the crowd.

Godin is not only a great author and thinker, he is also a phenomenal presenter.  If you ever have a chance to see him present, don’t miss the chance.  If not, at least read some of his books.  His ideas will help you expand your thinking to a completely new level.