Success is often built on the shoulders of failure - from which new configurations emerge.

In this quote, Kevin Reilly reflects on the interconnected relationship between success and failure. He suggests that success is often not achieved through a smooth, uninterrupted path but is instead built upon the lessons and experiences gained from failure. Reilly emphasizes that failure is not something to be feared or avoided, but rather, it serves as a foundational part of the journey toward achieving meaningful success.

The phrase "shoulders of failure" metaphorically illustrates that failure acts as a support or base for future success. Rather than seeing failure as an endpoint, Reilly views it as an essential building block from which new configurations—or innovative solutions, ideas, and approaches—can emerge. This suggests that success is often a result of reconfiguring past mistakes and learning from them, which leads to new opportunities and perspectives.

Reilly’s quote also speaks to the idea that growth and creativity come from adaptation and resilience. In the process of confronting failure, individuals or organizations are forced to think differently and reconsider their strategies, leading to more effective ways of achieving their goals. This aligns with the belief that innovation and progress are often born out of the need to overcome setbacks.

Ultimately, the quote encourages a mindset that views failure as an inevitable and valuable part of the process of success. It highlights the importance of learning from mistakes, adapting, and using failure as a stepping stone toward achieving new and greater accomplishments.