Often times we place so much pressure on ourselves to achieve the goal, whatever it may be, that we for get that one step forward is better than no steps forward. There is no such thing as failure, unless you quit. Everything in life is practice. Athletes practice to compete and then consider the competition practice for the next competition. Thinking this way can actually bleed over into life as well. Everything we do is just practice for life. Persistence, dedication, discipline, learning to deal with setbacks. Meditation is the same way. We are practicing for life. Mindfully. One breath at a time.