What can we learn from making mistakes?

We all know what a mistake is so there is no reason to offer the dictionary’s version of this reality. Mistakes offer us an opportunity to examine our thinking and discover what aspect(s) of our projects could be done differently, positively, therefore resulting in improved outcomes. Mistakes also offer us considerations so that we can begin to do things in an altered manner at a future time. Mistakes are actually, if used correctly, stepping stones towards having tremendous success.

Everyone makes mistakes – so we are all in good company. The good news about mistakes is we all have many opportunities to correct the apparent oversights and gain knowledge or experience about a particular issue.

Things we can do in relation to mistakes: We can choose to ignore mistakes…, blame others for our perception of the mistake(s)…, or simply decide to take responsibility for what we can do to move past being stuck or continuing to focus on the mistake.

Allowing for a mistake to be a learning opportunity, as opposed to being a lesson in failure, is choosing to see some aspect of the mistake from the viewpoint of goodness. Perhaps seeing one or more areas of a project as “needing some fine-tuning” is much better than saying ‘the entire project is useless.’ By looking at our own attitudes, and also reflecting upon the issues through a positive filter also helps us to engage with others in a professional manner. If we are open-minded, we are willing to receive guidance and make the appropriate changes so the mistake can be positively resolved in a timely manner. In truth, this is what we all hope to achieve.

Trust that nothing positive can be achieved if we are insisting on being right. This approach is often inflexible and out of alignment with the overall scope of the project (or goal). Be willing to allow yourself and others to participate in re-evaluating the situation in a gentle fashion. Focus on what can be done to restore peace and harmony, as opposed to harping on what was done incorrectly and more importantly looking in the direction of who to blame. By blaming others or insisting on being right, indicates we are stuck. We are also playing a losing game. There are no winners when anyone is locked in gridlock or chaos.

In truth, nothing positive comes out of negative thinking; unless of course, we notice what we are holding in mind and decide to let go of our negative perceptions. Changing our focus from negative to positive requires discipline. Each time we move away from replaying the same old, negative and often repetitive dialogues, allows us to begin to interact in a more peaceful manner. By changing what we are holding in mind, also allows the project to move forward more calmly. Remember each positive step creates more overall good feelings, which when extended to the project, equals prosperity and abundance for all.

Sometimes just by stepping away from the project for a short time allows us to consider other approaches that hadn’t been fully reviewed. Sometimes we have to play ‘process of elimination’ and exclude the erroneous parts of the project. Once the error is identified, we can easily replace those realities with better considerations. By refocusing on our project(s) positively, and collaborating with others, offers everyone new and improved ways of achieving the desired project results.

If we are playing A) “I win!” / B) “I win!” then we are working towards coming out ahead. We are also holding in mind that our partners and colleagues also achieve what they need to experience in a positive manner. When we look at mistakes in this manner, we can honestly agree that the mistake was a blessing. We can also learn much from others by observing their positive behaviors and how they work towards peacefully resolving issues of conflict.

Information about the mistake can be communicated to our self or others thoughtfully and in a respectful manner. Mistakes are simply a reflection of fear. When we are subconsciously focusing on something going wrong, that will be the reality that will be created. Better references and realities for us to focus on include: having successful projects at all times…, achieving tasks and goals easily…, and acknowledging colleagues and consultants as being perfectly capable of handling details related to their area of expertise. Each time we focus on recognizing our abilities, and the abilities of others in a positive manner, aligns our projects in having and achieving much better outcomes. Focusing positively on projects also allows us to approach the project in a trustful manner.

Notice the difference in having a positive approach versus reacting negatively. If either outcome is based on choice, why not focus on being in higher energy, and concentrating on having positive and enjoyable outcomes more often. Realistically each time anyone makes a mistake, offers everyone involved, one or more ways of improving the outcome the next time a similar situation occurs.

Mistakes are simply a label. Mistakes are also providers of developing better skills. Be willing to try new things. Continuing to learn things, related and unrelated to areas of our authority, opens many doors of consideration and possibility. Also be willing to look for the goodness in each situation. A mistake is only a mistake if that is what we are holding in mind. Do what works so that everyone wins. Start the wheels in motion by changing what you are holding in mind.