ABSTRACT
Individual Psychology considers the attitude of an individual toward the experience of failing as a decisive factor in his personality development. The experience of failure may discourage the individual, and consequently lower his élan, his zest for accomplishment. He may withdraw in an attempt to avoid further failing. Put to a test, the recurrence of failure is only natural. However, for the discouraged individual this renewed experience of failing will serve as a confirmation of his feared inability, and thus lead to further withdrawal. On the other hand, there are individuals who, in the case of failing, not only do not give up, but try the harder. They are untiring in their attempts to reach their goal, and in the end find their efforts rewarded. They may not only reach their goal, but go even farther and show exceptional achievements. Demosthenes is a classic example.
