Mistakes/errors can be a learning tool for improvement
Show me that
person who has never made a mistake or error and I will show you someone who
hasn't been adventurous or tried anything new. We all make mistakes and errors.
Mistakes and errors can be a very good opportunity to learn; however the fear
of not making mistakes has crippled innovation in many organizations.
Nobody makes a conscious effort to make errors; it is in the process of doing
or creating something that we make mistakes.
How can
we turn mistakes or errors to a learning opportunity?
1. Separate
personality from the error. Who goes about breaking plates?
2. Have a
discussion about what was the reason for the error.
3. Ask what
could have been done better. It gives room for improvement.
4. The fear of
mistakes and errors can cripple a team or company; create room to try new
things even if it is not the norm.
5. Avoid the
scenario of sidetracking the individual because they have made an error.
Challenge them the more. The mere thought of that confidence in them allows for
a deep commitment to their work.
6. Let everyone
be involved in providing a solution. Everyone learns from the experience.
7. Avoid the use
of the word "error"; maybe call it an experience or challenge to
shift the thinking away from "who did it" to "how do we solve
it".
8.The greatest
learning and loyalty comes when you stand with your team in hard times;
correcting them in secret and standing up for them in public. Note that true
learning comes from deep reflection. That is what correction in secret does; it
allows for reflection.
Mistakes/errors
can help give new perspectives to a situation, product, service or solution.
Maybe the reason for a lack of innovative thinking is the fear of error.
Leaders challenge others to create new things and not maintain the status quo.
Action point:List the actions
and attitude you exhibit that creates fear in your team. Decide on how to
eliminate those fears.
Adebayo
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