I’m learning to play tennis, and it’s a lesson in failure. I’m a beginner, so many of my shots hit the net or land way beyond the lines. I’m starting out, so I know that with more practice, I’ll get better. I’m not Serena Williams – yet.
It’s made me think about why it’s so hard to have this mindset at work. When I have struggled at work, my mind jumps to how this shows I’m terrible at my job, how my boss will realise I’m faking it, how I’m a failure. From speaking to colleagues and friends, I know I’m not alone.
Research shows that having a growth mindset (like the one I have playing tennis), is very good for you. Instead of seeing failure as a negative, we see it as an opportunity for growth, a chance to try again. We know that people with a growth mindset set more stretch goals, are more motivated to accomplish things that matter most and have higher levels of hope.
So let’s return to that little word yet, which gives such an easy way to reframe: eg with complex pivot tables, I’m not there YET… with a bit more practice I’ll get it. It’s a small word, but I find it makes a noticeable difference. And remember Thomas Edison’s words after working on the light bulb: “I have not failed, not once. I’ve discovered ten thousand ways that don’t work”
Why you might not be great…. yet: how one little word changes everything
