A long, long time ago… there was an aircraft called the C-23A Sherpa… I was lucky enough to fly the USAF variant at Zweibruken AB Germany. We had a Director of Operations in the 10th MAS that would ALWAYS ask the question “…well…(strategic pause)….did you learn anything?” whenever somebody made a mistake… great question, but it assumes a very important thing…. that you are willing to take responsibility and own that mistake.
All leaders make mistakes. They are part of life. Successful leaders recognize their errors, learn from them, and then work to correct their faults. A study of 105 executives (wondering why 105?) determined many of the characteristics of successful executives, but one particular trait was acknowledged as THE most valuable. It was that they admitted their mistakes and accepted the consequences rather then trying to blame others.
Most people don’t want to reap the consequences of their action. You can see this type of attitude everywhere. A leader who is willing to take responsibility for their actions…heck for their unit’s actions and to be honest and “transparent” with their people and higher commanders is someone they will admire, respect, and trust. That leader is ALSO someone THEY can learn from—and the circle is complete….
1 Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your unfailing love;
according to your great compassion
blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash away all my iniquity
and cleanse me from my sin.
3 For I know my transgressions,
and my sin is always before me…
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Psalm 51: 1-3, 10
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