It’s nice to recognize you are an expert at something. Lately, I’ve recognized I am an expert at making mistakes. I have a 70-year record to prove it.
Studying my past faux pas and larger errors in judgment is an exciting and frightful experience. However, it has helped me discover the magic antidote to many mistakes – admitting them quickly and fixing the situation if it’s fixable.
One of my biggest mistakes was flunking out of the University of Illinois my sophomore year. I had not gone to class. I was too busy hitchhiking over to Greencastle, Indiana, to pursue a romantic relationship.
For years, I hid my mistake and made up fantastic and creative stories about my undergraduate career. Finally, it dawned on me that I was only hiding from myself. No one else really cared.
Admitting my failure turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. I went forward and gained a great curiosity in learning and honestly earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
We all make mistakes. I’d love to hear what you’ve learned from yours.