Famous Failures in History

There have been many famous people from all professions who have failed in their attempts to achieve their dreams. From politicians, to presidents, to writers, and actors, many of these people also became famous because of their unsuccessful attempts. But what is it that makes these people stand out in the crowd? And what is it about failure that seems to unleash the high standards of motivation they possess throughout life? Continue reading to find out.

Did you know our 16th president Abraham Lincoln lived a very tough life? It was through these many adversities that he learned to become stronger and wiser. From the death of his fiance to having a nervous breakdown, honest Abe experienced a number of different physical and emotional obstacles throughout his life.

Oprah Winfrey, who is one of the most successful women ever, and the most successful talk show host has also had to overcome many life changing obstacles throughout her lifetime. She was sexually abused in her childhood not once, but a number of times, she lived through poverty and became stronger and well versed in spite of these experiences.

She was successful in being able to lose weight a number of times, but was unsuccessful in long-term weight loss. We saw her struggle with her weight throughout the years. It was only just recently that she discovered that true happiness is more than about what size she is, it is about being happy with yourself no matter what size you are.

Although now she has a level of power and prestige that many people only dream of, she was able to form not only a name for herself, but has helped many people because of it. Finding her way to fame, was not an easy task.

Walt Disney who was a famous writer, was actually fired from his job in the early stages of his career because he lacked creativity. Who would have ever imagined this? It was through this failure that he learned how to succeed. Somewhere within his inner being, he found the strength to push forth. It was his uncanny imagination and creative eye that helped him develop and create the colorful characters that have touched us all. Through his hard work and dedication he was able to create a trademark known as Walt Disney.

Lucille Ball, who used humor as a way to connect with people was booted from drama class during her high school years because she was too shy. However, later in life she learned to overcome her shyness and become one of the best female comedians of all time. Her show "I Love Lucy" has been able to withstand the test of time. Even in today's day and age it is still considered to be funny.

Martin Luther King another famous person who was known for his attempts to promote equality among the human race, was ostracized by his family for not wanting to pursue a career as a merchant. Instead he became famous for many different movements in U.S. history. He was also well known for making philosophical speeches which gave people a new perspective about life and liberty.

One quote that has brought the races together is, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character"(Brainyquote).

When people are shown that even the most famous people have failed in their lives it also helps put their own lives in perspective. This helps people in a number of different ways.

It gives people the strength and courage to grow and become the person they want to become and it teaches people valuable lessons in life. By using failure as a catalyst people can use this as motivation to help them get where they would like to be in the future. It is this inner drive that often drives people to success.