Setbacks Before Spotlights
Ready — Tom Brokaw’s early years gave little indication that he would become one of the most trusted voices in American journalism. As a student, he was restless, unfocused, and interested in life outside the classroom. A series of missteps and setbacks, including rejection from Harvard, forced Brokaw to confront an uncomfortable truth: talent without discipline rarely leads to lasting influence.
Set — Those early failures became turning points rather than dead ends. Brokaw realized that if he wanted a meaningful life, he needed to take responsibility for his education and focus his energy. He recommitted himself to school, discovered a growing interest in broadcast journalism, and learned the value of preparation. Instead of resenting his setbacks, he allowed them to sharpen his resolve. Discouragement became direction.
Tom Brokaw succeeded because he . . .
Learned from Failure. Brokaw treated his early setbacks as instructors rather than indictments. He reflected on failure and extracted lessons that shaped his future success.
Choose Discipline Over Excuses. He recognized that improvement required structure, effort, and accountability. He replaced excuses with intentional habits.
Discovered Purpose. As Brokaw leaned into his studies, his passion for storytelling and public communication emerged. He found that purpose often follows commitment.
Built Credibility. His later success was rooted in years of careful preparation. Trust was earned slowly through faithful execution, not sudden breakthroughs.
Grow! — Tom Brokaw’s setbacks did not disqualify him; they clarified him. Looking back, he said, “The initial stumble was critical in getting me launched.” By taking school seriously and embracing the discipline of journalism, he transformed early failures into a foundation for influence. Closed doors redirected his focus for greater responsibility.
Two Questions
How have setbacks defined or refined your life and work?
Has rejection launched you in new directions?