The scenario is familiar: A crisis has occurred or is eminent. The
leader assembles is team. He gives a rousing pep talk which includes
this phrase: “Failure is not an option!”
Failure is always an option.
It’s the most likely option. Far more likely than success. Far easier to
happen. If it wasn’t, a dramatic pep talk would be unnecessary.
So what is our leader really saying by telling his subordinates that
“Failure is not an option”? He’s saying, “Listen to me guys. You better
not screw this up!” Far from inspirational.
Failure is critical to success. Almost always a precursor to it. The key
is managing it, such that the costs are small but the benefits are
potentially huge. That’s real leadership.
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