Tuesday, December 20, 2005

why can't making mistakes be considered a positive thing?

When you're a kid you work out pretty quickly that the only way forward, the only way to learn and grow, is through trial and error. You spend a bit of time falling over before you finally master the one foot in front of the other concept of walking, and you may spend the better part of a year gurgling before you finally start forming coherent words. Throughout your formative years the world is comfortable with the fact that you'll be making plenty of mistakes - it's even encouraged! - as you navigate your way to adulthood.

And then, before you can say "ooops, did I do that? Sorry!" all bets are off once you become an adult. Now, the usual reaction you can expect ranges from frustration to anger, disappointment to scorn. Why are mistakes suddenly considered the enemy? It's not like we stop learning once we become adults, and some of the greatest success stories have a history of failure before they hit the big time. They learnt from their mistakes and moved onwards and upwards. So why can't mistakes be considered a positive thing? Why, when I accidentally delete a spreadsheet, can't my boss laugh fondly, ruffle my hair, and say "at least you'll know not to do that next time"? Why, when I forget my girlfriend's birthday, can't she smile sweetly and say, "Silly, it's always been September. You can just take me to dinner next year"?

Why can't our mistakes be given the thumbs up, a friendly slap on the back and a "better luck next time"?

Making mistakes is educational. Making mistakes is part of the human condition. Making mistakes is fun! Conquer your fear of failure and embrace your imperfections! Get out there and give everything you've ever wanted to do a go and let the chips fall where they may.

POSTED BY THE ZERO MOVEMENT AT 10:32 AM

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