Hi Jordan! Another wonderful article with the best headline as always! I'd like to comment on the "try again at the same thing" idea you suggested.

I happened to have just graduated from MAPP this year. What most didn't know is that I didn't get in the first time applied, and that it took me probably 2 years doubting whether I'm "tool old" to do it (I'm 39) and whether I'm ready for that hefty Ivy League tuition! I eventually came to the realization that I'm worth the investment. It turns out that I had classmates in their 40s, 50s and 60s pursuing their second, or third advanced degree!

I also got into a competitive leadership development program in a Canadian telecom 12 years ago. What many don't know is that I didn't get in the first time I applied. I went with some "easier" jobs after college, decided to apply again and got in when I was 28, working among a bunch of youngsters in their early 20s. I've changed career since then as I felt that my relationship with that company has "expired", but the 7 years in that company gave me probably the best professional experience and network that have benefited the next chapters of my life.

"Upward social comparison" and the "hedonic treadmill" still get the better of me sometimes. What got me out of feeling like a failure is trusting that we all have our own "corner of the sky" like that song by Stephen Schwartz says. The roles I thought I really wanted and didn't get often turned out to be a good fit for me. Another one is remembering that sometimes we are just not ready YET but we would be one day as long as we work at it strategically!

Have fun at your social work degree! Now I'm back to gushing over your articles and figuring out how I can find the time and discipline to write more on positive psychology in the cool way that you did!

Iris