[SlideDeck id=’1530′ width=’100%’ height=’300px’] I just read an enlightening book by Warren Bennis, entitled On Becoming a Leader for a Leadership class I’m taking this summer. And, although this text is required reading, it is like no text book I’ve ever read.
What can be learned from this book? There are so many basic insights that would support anyone holding or aspiring to hold a leadership position. Many of these topics will be discussed over the next few weeks, but in this entry, I want to emphasize how important it is to make mistakes.
Mistakes are part of life, but often our jobs and supervisors demand perfection. However, many of the leaders interviewed for the book view mistakes as an opportunity for growth and progress. They viewed those employees who took risks but failed as courageous and successful. So, do not be afraid of making mistakes or failing. Make bold decisions, but trust that failure is essential and unavoidable. But be brave, and never make the same mistake twice.
It’s ok to make mistakes.
“If you haven’t failed, you haven’t tried very hard.” –Shirley Hufstedler
Hi, I am Amanda Conradie! I look forward to blogging this summer on a variety of topics over the summer. I look forward to reading your comments!
2 Comments.
I can tell you that I have made more than my share of mistakes in my 49 years, both professionally and personally. The key is to learn from your mistakes and not repeat them(I know it sounds trite, but it’s true). From a business point of view, if I had not made mistakes riding my unicycle and walking my wire, both in practice and performances, I likely would not have excelled. the “gaff’s, once I understood them, were focused on and eventually minimized or eliminated altogether. Take heart; self evaluate, focus, and then be determined! You will surely advance in life if you do this.
As driven and successful individuals, many of us understand that mistakes are part of our own development. As leaders, it is important that we ensure that our subordinates are learning from their mistakes, as well.
Thank you for taking the time to comment.