Making mistakes is an inherent part of being human. No matter how much you try to change things in an effort to become the perfect businessman, you will soon realize that there is no such thing. We are all human and humans all make mistakes.
But how do you react when you make a mistake? What is your instinct? How do you deal with the situation?
For many people, making a mistake is not an option, and when it does happen, they somehow cannot believe it. As a result, they act like the proverbial ostrich with his head buried in the sand. They justify the mistake and never acknowledge the fact that they have indeed made a slip.
Here is rule number 1 about dealing with your own mistakes: own up to them!
Just because you own your business and you are THE boss, it does not mean that you are above making a mistake. It does not mean that you cannot, even for just one moment, admit that you are not perfect. Running away from your mistake and not stepping up to the plate will only make things worse, especially in the eyes of your subordinates. A boss who admits his shortcomings and takes responsibility for them will only be admired more by his employees.
If you have been shying away from showing your human side, so to speak, why don’t you try honesty and openness? You just might be surprised at how much easier it can be to solve the complications that arise from your occasional mistake.
Originally posted on April 20, 2011 @ 4:35 am