Dear Leaders,
When I think about some of the most impactful lessons I have learned as a leader, I am reminded that many of them are connected to mistakes I have made along the way.
In my early days of leadership, I worked hard to avoid making an error of any kind. I held myself to an unrealistic standard and believed that strong leadership meant getting it right all the time. Of course, I never achieved that impossible goal. With time and experience, I came to understand that the goal was not to avoid mistakes altogether. The goal was to learn how to practice resilience, vulnerability, and accountability when mistakes happened.
Owning my mistakes, admitting when I was wrong, and taking meaningful action to make things right have done more to strengthen relationships, build trust, and establish credibility than almost anything else in my leadership journey. Humanizing myself as a leader has helped others see my heart beyond any title I may have held.
Two of the most powerful words any leader can offer are, “I’m sorry.”
When we own our errors, we give those we serve the opportunity to see humility in action. We demonstrate openness, honesty, and a willingness to admit when we do not get it right. In turn, our example creates space for others to be human, too. It helps build a culture where perfection is not required, growth is expected, and authenticity is honored.
In this season of leadership, I am thankful for my journey and for every lesson I have learned as a result of the mistakes I have made along the way. Each one has helped me grow, support others more effectively, and sharpen my skills for the next group of people I have been honored to serve.
I am grateful to be free from the pressure to be perfect. I am far removed from those early leadership days when I thought perfection was the goal. I may not be certain of many things, but I am sure of this: owning mistakes, learning from them, and allowing them to shape us is a much more productive focus than perfectionism.
So this week, I want to encourage leaders everywhere to take stock of both your gifts and your opportunities for growth. Reflect on the mistakes you have made throughout your leadership journey. Think about how you practice resilience, ownership, and humility when you have made a poor decision or fallen short. Consider how your actions can build trust, strengthen connections, and deepen your relationships with your team.
Vulnerability is the currency of trust. Every time a leader practices it with sincerity, their leadership is strengthened. While it may feel risky, vulnerability remains one of the most powerful tools a leader has to build meaningful connection.
Keep leading with heart, soul, and from the inside out.
Yours in Leadership,
Latoya