Growing from Errors and Mistakes

by Clint Maun, CSP

How do you handle errors and mistakes? When we make mistakes we usually try to understand why, to avoid making the mistake again. Sometimes we see other people's errors and mistakes as deliberate and start to see the errors and the people causing them as a constant challenge.

Errors and mistakes can be reduced if you use the right approach and consistently work at it. When you seem to be plagued by errors, here are a few simple basics to keep in mind:

• First, no one is perfect. If the person made their first error in a long time it's smarter to concentrate on their excellent record rather than a scolding for one mistake.
• If more mistakes are starting to occur, no matter how serious, don't immediately set out with the idea of blaming somebody. The important thing is to find out how the mistakes are happening and determine how they can be prevented in the future.
• We suggest teaming with the person(s) making the errors to establish an atmosphere of cooperation and growth. By working together problem identification and solutions will be easier to find and implement.
• Be encouraging. If people make progress in cutting down the number of errors then you need to notice and appreciate the improvement. Let them know you see their improvement.
• It is important that the person making the mistakes understands there are consequences for their actions. Sometimes knowing what happens when they make errors will help them to be more careful in their efforts.
• If for some reason the mistakes are not being corrected, other solutions will have to be examined, including redeployment or replacement of the person continuing to make mistakes.

If you put yourself in the shoes of the person who made the error what would make you want to do better and avoid the mistake in the future? Errors and mistakes help us to grow. When we help people learn from their failures they also learn to have more success.