Learning From Your Mistakes

I came across an article that asked the question, “Should you admit a mistake?” at work. It intrigued me to see what the response was. The subhead rang true- If you do admit an error, you can start looking for solutions. I think too many times we are worried about covering our tracks or consumed by the notion of how to get out of the mistake, we do not focus on a resolution.

I am not claiming to be all-knowing by any means, but I can say the transition from my 20’s to my 30’s really changed my perspective on many things. I feel like a lot of what the article stated was tips I have learned in the process of maturing personally and professionally. Here are two key tips I thought were worth sharing.

1. Own up to your mistakes and come with a resolution. Don’t pass the buck or be defensive- just admit it, accept it and move on. I know that sounds simplistic, but in reality, it can be. So much of our situational stress and heartache is self-inflicted. I have been amazed at how quickly we can resolve a situation and it becomes old news if we just deal with it.

2. Move on. Prove it was a mistake and not a pattern. Most often, your team will forgive a mistake, especially if it is out of character or an obvious slip-up. However, if you continue to do the same thing, people will begin to second-guess your decisions and abilities.

I always find it funny that we often disregard the simplest tips and things that seem like common sense. I am guilty of it myself. But, at this point in my career, what do I have to gain by hiding behind someone else or dodging the truth? Making myself invaluable to my company and upholding my integrity is far more important than not fessing up to something I did.