Failing Well: Turning Failure into Opportunity, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article discusses how leaders and organizations can adopt a more constructive approach to failure by regarding it as an opportunity for learning and improvement rather than a negative outcome to be avoided or hidden. It begins by defining failure as simply not achieving an intended result and exploring how failure is often perceived negatively. The article then outlines ways leaders can "fail well" by reframing failure mentally as a natural part of progress, analyzing what caused specific failures to identify accountability and lessons, and ensuring changes are made based on lessons learned. It also stresses the importance of transparently sharing learning from failures to build an organizational culture where risks and mistakes are seen as valuable sources of knowledge. Finally, the article provides suggestions for cultivating an environment where intelligent risk-taking and subsequent learning from failures are consistently encouraged, such as demonstrating past risks that paid off and recognizing attempts at innovation regardless of outcomes.