April Foolishness: Teachable Moments From Memorable Gaffes

We've all made memorable mistakes and embarrassing gaffes that still make us cringe. But what did we learn from those moments of foolishness?

As part of a monthlong April CircleAround series tied to April Fools' Day, we asked writers — and readers — to share stories and advice on what we gained from some of our most cringeworthy memories, and how those faux pas became teachable moments.

* The College Prank Club: "To say I was in a daze would have been the ultimate understatement, but that was exactly why their plan worked so well."

* That Terrifying Time I Fell Off the Chairlift: "In a flash decision, knowing I had to get off, I jumped … landing squarely on my belly, arms sprawled out and skis in the air."

* The Golf Shot of a Lifetime: "I got into position, an awkward partial crouch, as I set up the ball and sized up the tee. I wrapped my one gloved hand and my bare one on the driver’s rubber grip. Wiggled my hips and planted my feet. I checked to make sure he was looking, wanting to show off, and pulled my arms back in a wide, lovely arc. And I went for the shot with all that was in me."

* My Real-Life Devil Wears Prada Moment. "In true Andy Sachs fashion, Anne Hathaway’s character in The Devil Wears Prada, I pleaded my case to the apprehensive top dog, stating that I was 'smart, learned fast, and would work very hard.' I’m a Midwest girl after all."

If you'd like to contribute to the series, send us your thoughts to info@circlearound.com or post on our "2021 Inspiration Wall."