Plan to Fail

When was the last time you felt comfortable failing?  I don't mean a little misstep; I mean trying something that you hoped would work out but it just didn't.  It took time, resources and money to put together and it fell flat.  What did that feel like?  Did you worry that you would look ineffective in the eyes of your supervisor, peers, and employees?  Did you vow never to try anything risky again so as to avoid failure?  That doesn't do much for innovation, does it?

Now think about your team.  What environment have you created so they feel confident trying new things knowing that many of them won't work, but also knowing you have their back?  Have you set the tone for innovation and risk-taking?  If you have, you'll probably end up filling every vacancy from within, because the word will get out that you are the leader to work for in your organization.

How About You

Are you willing to publicly recognize a member of your team for failing, because it showed how committed they are to try new things?  Or, maybe it's just safer to keep your head down and stay quiet.

I'd love to hear from you.

No Excuses.


pic courtesy of cloudave