5 Ways To Learn From Past Professional Mistakes
Whether it’s an error in judgment or a joke that doesn’t go over well and leaves you feeling awkward, we’ve all made mistakes at work. We know that there is no growth without mistakes, but we’re not always so great at forgiving ourselves and making amends with others if need be. Here are 5 ways you can learn, grow, and build better relationships by learning from past professional mistakes.
Forgive yourself
We all make mistakes, and we all have to get better at forgiving ourselves for that. We’re human and bound to slip up at some point. Eventually, it’ll happen at work, but a majority of the time a mistake is not a career killer. Instead of dwelling in shame and embarrassment, acknowledge that you made a mistake and you can move past it with a little work. This will put you in the right mindset to move forward instead of constantly apologizing.
Take responsibility
Acknowledging your mistake is one thing, but it must be followed up with what we think is the most important follow-up: take responsibility. Being the person who needs improvement is uncomfortable and we don’t always know the path forward. Taking responsibility for your words and actions builds your reputation as a person worthy of respect and trust. Being defensive and blame-shifting will drive others away from you. It can be tough, but as Michelle Obama reminds us, “Failure is an important part of your growth and developing resilience.” If you’re always right, you never learn.
Come up with a plan
So, you’ve identified the source of the problem. What are you going to do now? Come up with a plan to improve yourself and your performance, that’s what! Supervisors and managers are looking for growth, and recognizing and owning your areas of growth sends a powerful message at work. You’re competent, you’re reliable, and you’re an asset to the company. Growing past your mistake is a great way to up your game at work.
Find an expert
If this mistake reveals a gap in your knowledge or area for growth, seek out an expert with that skill in your organization. Ask for an informational interview, find resources online, look into your professional development options, and make every effort to improve in this area. Not only is this part of taking responsibility, but this shows you’re resilient, smart, and care enough about your job to improve.
Act proactively
It’s always better to show that you’re thinking ahead and anticipating problems. When you see a situation developing that resembles a past mistake, proactively ask for help or find ways to avoid it so there’s not a repeat problem. Whatever you do, you do not want to keep making the same mistakes over and over again. Get ahead of it, find a solution, and fall upwards.
Becky Holder is a content contributor for JUGs and works in education. In her free time she looks for the next best cup of coffee and great food. Follow along @rebeccalizholder on Instagram.
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