This study investigated the effect of rumination and reflection on self-esteem, contingencies of self-worth, and mental growth from failure. A questionnaire measuring rumination, reflection, self-esteem, contingencies of self-worth, and growth from failure was completed by 203 university students. Results of covariance structure analysis showed the following. Reflection enhanced mental growth from failure, mediated by a higher level of self-esteem. Rumination reduced mental growth from failure, mediated by a lower level of self-esteem. Rumination enhanced mental growth from failure, mediated by a higher level of contingencies of self-worth.