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From 39 Fails to a Global Brand: The Art of Failure

Writer's picture: Mark RobertMark Robert

We often view failure as a setback, a roadblock on our journey towards our goals. But what if we reframed it? What if we saw each "failed" attempt not as a stumbling block, but as a stepping stone, bringing us closer to ultimate success?


The story of WD-40 perfectly illustrates this point. Developed in the 1950s to protect aircraft from corrosion, its creators faced countless challenges. It took them 39 attempts before they finally arrived at the winning formula. Instead of viewing these 39 attempts as failures, they celebrated them. They named their breakthrough product "WD-40," acknowledging the 40th attempt as the one that finally cracked the code.


This mindset – embracing each attempt as a valuable learning experience – is crucial for innovation and growth. Every misstep provides valuable insights. It reveals what doesn't work, guiding us towards a better solution.

Think of it like this: Imagine a sculptor chipping away at a block of marble. Each chip removes unwanted material, gradually revealing the masterpiece within. The "failed" chips are essential to the final form.


So, the next time you encounter a setback, remember WD-40. See it as an opportunity to learn, to refine your approach, and to ultimately achieve something truly remarkable. Embrace the journey, celebrate the attempts, and remember: the 40th time might just be the charm.


Key takeaways:

  • Failure is not the end, but a stepping stone.

  • Each attempt provides valuable lessons.

  • Embrace the process of learning and refinement.

  • Celebrate the journey, not just the destination.


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