If you see failure as a monster stalking you, or one that has already ruined your life, take another look. That monster can become a benevolent teacher, opening your mind to successes you cannot now imagine.

Martha Beck, PhD, is an American author, life coach, sociologist, and inspirational speaker. After leaving the Mormon church, both she and her husband subsequently came out as gay. Beck has been a contributing editor and writer for several popular magazines including Redbook, Real Simple, and O, the Oprah Magazine, and is president of her own company, Martha Beck, Inc., which offers life coach training as well as products and live events related to life coaching.