I think one of the worst things you can do is look for more opinions to further your diminish your confidence level.

Everyone has their own path and it’ll workout however you want it to if you’re willing to put in the work. Your piece of plastic is just as important as the guy that passed the first time so explain how you learned from your failures. I have 3 on my primary record and while I thought they were BS but definitely don’t blame anyone but myself, my instructor (30 year delta captain) definitely blames the examiner.

I think about them frequently but they don’t determine my outcome, I do. I’ve since taken 2 rides with successful outcomes on the first try including CFI initial.

Way too many “scholars” on this board that probably prevent decent pilots from pursuing their career because they messed up a maneuver on their private checkride. I can’t tell you how many guys that have no failures that I’ve flown with wondering how they did it. That goes for some CFI’s as well!

Determine what you want to do in aviation and go do it. I personally don’t think it’ll require any more work than the guy with no failures as you’ll be given your opportunity somewhere so take advantage of it!

Last point, too many guys get wrapped up in what they think is the dream job. You might find something else that you didn’t even think of with an incredible QOL and better pay than the 30 year United Captain. Be open to that and enjoy the fact that you have the ability to fly whenever and wherever you want. Good luck and have fun!