Whoops, Oh No, Shoot, Ugh. 

Mistakes. We all make them, we might cringe in reflection of one, and hopefully, we can all learn from them. From saying the wrong thing in a meeting, tweeting something that was misspelled, slipping on a patch of ice in front of a large group of students…I could go on and on, but chances are you get the point. 

Here is the deal-regardless of your past mistakes-don’t stop making them! The only way to get better is by trying and taking risks, even if you fall or falter-the learning is in the process. 

When we focus on learning from our falls, they don’t hurt as much and can be a learning opportunity and helpful for others. 

• Favor your falls.  Try hard to see good and growth from your mistakes. Finding the good in your falls allow you to grow, learn, and be better at what you do.
• Forgive yourself. We get bruised enough by others in this work; we don’t need to do it to ourselves. Allow yourself to make mistakes, and then laugh and learn from them. Don’t restrict yourself to the idea of perfection, as it will restrict you from growth as well. 
• Follow up with others. How often do you take the time to apologize to your students for mistakes you make? Whether immediate, or a few weeks down the road… recognizing it, owning it, identifying it, and communicating it back strengthens relationships and also models the process for students. 

Moving forward with an honest, caring style, and your authentic personality allows you to be present in any context and ready to serve others while still being open to learning from your mistakes and family forward. 

The risk is always worth the reward.

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