The Value of Mistakes

The moment you realize you’ve made a mistake, you may suddenly feel a surge of anxiety. You may be embarrassed, confused, and uncertain what to do next. But rather than view the mistake as a setback, think of it as an opportunity. By overcoming your own mistakes, you’ll help others improve their lives. 

Consider these three scenarios in which analyzing and sharing our mistakes can create future growth:

Mistakes & Self-Improvement: Whether your mistake is financial, professional, or personal, only let yourself feel the twinges of embarrassment and regret momentarily. Consider even congratulating yourself: now you know what you will NOT do in the future. Your path has become a little clearer! Think of it as a thorn that draws your attention to where it needs to go … to the blooming rose of your future! And don’t be afraid to share your experience with others; their support and insight may surprise you.

Leaders Can Connect: A good leader is not someone who declares, “I have always done everything perfectly! Now, follow my example.” Instead, when you notice a team member is struggling from their own less-than-beneficial decision, don’t shy away from sharing the time you had a similar fallible experience. If the team member can see that, like them, you made a mistake, and you used that in a constructive new direction, they will be encouraged for what comes next, rather than fixated on their “error.”

Professionals Can Make Mistakes, Too: A client may come to a professional bemoaning a mistake they made, or a professional may be worried about a client’s current direction. Before criticizing or sharing in their worry, tell the client about a similar mistake you once made. Whether it was an unwise investment, or a self-limiting belief, the story you share with them will shrink their issue to a manageable, relatable scale. It is encouraging to hear, that in our error, we are not alone!

Think of mistakes as fuel that encourages your own development as well as that of others. Our past mistakes are powerful referential tools.

To learn about more healthy financial and professional habits that will keep you looking forward, not back, visit the Syncis blog.