The failure was a kick in the pants that motivated her to work harder.
Неудача была пинком под зад, который мотивировал её работать усерднее.
Definitions
A 'kick in the pants' is an idiomatic expression meaning something that serves as a strong motivation or wake-up call, often prompting someone to take action or improve their behavior. It can also refer to a reprimand or criticism intended to spur someone into action.