"I'm Sorry I Made a Mistake"

It's funny to think that these six words are at the top of the list of what a good leader - and follower - should be saying. But it's true.

We need to accept criticism (even if it's from ourselves), as it promotes an open environment to talk about issues, and not just someone's personal ability. In the grand scheme of things, how important is it for the Committee Chair to think you're on top of everything, only to find out that you've been missing deadlines and bringing the entire committee down? In my opinion, not very important. Yet this desire within ourselves to please others is so strong, there is a certain compellence to.... well.... stretch the truth, to say the very least. Admitting mistakes may seem like it closes many doors, but it actually opens many more. A group can collaborate on how to fix it, and a solution can be reached a lot faster. Most of the time, a problem comes up because someone can't handle it on their own. An open environment is key for finding answers together, and working together alike to find the best solution.

I'm Sorry I Made a Mistake. Let's work together to figure out how to solve it, and prevent this from happening in the future.

These words should be ingrained in every great leader's mind.