Team Principle 6.8
Nobody likes to make a mistake, especially at work. It can be embarrassing and awkward and can sometimes lead to larger consequences. No one can reduce mistakes to zero, but you can learn to look at mistakes differently and channel the stress into better decision-making in the future by using these tips.
MEDUCOM’s tips for reducing your fear of making mistakes:
Don’t be ashamed of your mistakes: Everyone makes mistakes, but not everyone learns from them. At MEDUCOM, mistakes are openly talked about, and steps are taken to help others prevent making the same ones.
Follow your processes: If you’re nervous about making a mistake on a project because you’re unfamiliar with the process or you haven’t done it in a while, go back to the basics. Read the instructions manual, review the SOP or use a template – follow along step by step and feel confident you’re doing it right.
Use fear to your advantage: Stress is a normal part of life and can actually push you to produce higher-quality work. A little bit of “good stress” provides your mind with an incentive and pushes you to do your best.
While you may strive for perfection in your work and your life, mistakes are still going to happen. Next time you want to volunteer for a task or go up for a promotion, acknowledge you might make mistakes, but recognize that it is an opportunity to grow and to learn.
-Renée Paul
