Italian psychiatrist: failure is the best teacher (and silicon valley should listen)

Paolo Crepet, a prominent Italian psychiatrist, isn't just dispensing traditional advice; he’s issuing a sharp critique of a society increasingly obsessed with shielding itself from discomfort—and, in doing so, potentially crippling the next generation. The core of his argument? We’re shortchanging young people by removing the essential lessons learned from setbacks.

The paradox of protective environments

Crepet’s observations, echoing a broader societal concern, pinpoint a perilous trend: the overprotection of youth from frustration. This is particularly evident in education, where some models seem designed to eradicate error rather than embracing it as a vital learning tool. But the irony, as Crepet points out, is that this approach can backfire, fostering a fear of risk and a stunted ability to overcome obstacles.

The parallel with the tech world is striking. Just this week, thousands of entrepreneurs have admitted that artificial intelligence isn't delivering on the promised surge in employment or productivity—a reality that recalls a similar disappointment felt forty years ago regarding early automation. The fundamental question remains: are we preparing individuals for a world that demands resilience, or creating a generation ill-equipped to navigate inevitable challenges?

Falling seven times, rising eight: a japanese wisdom

Crepet’s phrasing – “life teaches us to fall seven times and rise eight” – draws from a well-known Japanese metaphor embodying resilience. It’s not simply about enduring hardship; it’s about the persistence required to keep moving forward despite—and because of—those falls. The real strength, he argues, isn’t in avoiding mistakes, but in the capacity to rebound from them.

Consider this: Progress rarely follows a linear path. It's a messy, iterative process of trial and error, course correction, and renewed effort. Schools, Crepet insists, shouldn’t just be conduits for information; they must cultivate the ability to manage frustration—an essential skill for anyone venturing beyond the carefully curated bubble of modern life.

The recent shift toward young people seeking solace in AI chatbots – effectively, a digital “divan” – rather than traditional therapy, speaks volumes about this anxiety. It suggests a yearning for instant solutions and a reluctance to grapple with the uncomfortable realities of personal growth. But true growth isn't found in avoiding the struggle; it's forged in the crucible of experience.

Crepet isn’t advocating for embracing failure for its own sake. Instead, he highlights a crucial truth: personal development is built on a foundation of experiences, mistakes, and the subsequent resolve to try again. The path ahead is rarely predictable, filled with detours, missteps, and projects that don’t pan out. And ultimately, the true measure of strength lies not in avoiding the falls, but in mastering the art of getting back up.