The document describes two instances of academic and professional failure in the author's life. First, when the author was 12, their mother wanted them to study abroad to improve their English and gain independence, but the author refused due to a fear of leaving friends and school. Second, when graduating university in Japan, the author's friends sought jobs but the author declined job hunting in Japan, instead returning to Thailand against the advice of friends and family. The author now wishes they had taken the opportunities to study abroad and work in Japan to gain valuable experiences in new environments and further develop skills.