Sent an email without the required attachment? No biggie, right? Just send another email. But what if your workplace mistake was bigger or costlier? What if it was something that resulted in damaging your employer’s credibility, public image or future earnings? Or maybe your mistake made you look incompetent?
You might be feeling embarrassed or ashamed because of your action. You’re thinking that your credibility is hanging by a thread. But don’t worry too much because you can get through this if you do the following things immediately.
Feel Bad, but Not Too Long
Allow yourself to feel bad about your mistake but don’t dwell on it for too long. Crucifying yourself won’t correct the mistake. Take about 15 seconds to feel awful, then let it go. Some negativity might linger, but it’s natural. Brooding about it for an extended period of time will only cause more stress on your part and will not stop the problem from getting bigger or make it go away.
If you need to, step out for a bit and go for a jog or workout. This will help you release pent up feelings and clear your mind so that when you go back, you can start to take steps to rectify the mistake.
Keep The Perspective
With the exception of some jobs like being a doctor, military personnel, or pilot, making mistakes at work is not a life or death situation. It is very difficult to maintain perspective and keep emotions in check when you’re feeling embarrassed. However, you don’t have to go over the top. You uploaded the wrong file, cost your company money or made yourself look like an idiot. But at least you’re alive and nobody was mortally wounded. Keep emotions in check because your mistake is fixable.
Worst Case Scenario
What is the worst case scenario? The problem with the worst case scenario is your mind tends to over exaggerate the potential consequence of your mistake. This leads to stress and worry for your part or cause you to make more errors. When you make a mistake, entertain the worst case scenario, and then let it go! You cost the company a lot of money and you’re probably going to get fired, but maybe not. But if it happens, you are resourceful, talented and you will survive. Let this be your mantra.
Apologize For Your Mistake If You Need To
If you need to apologize, do it immediately and briefly. “I’m sorry, I made a mistake. I am doing everything I can to correct this”. That’s all you need to say. No excuses, no justification.
Make A Game Plan
Evaluate what you need to do differently next time to avoid making the same mistake. You might be missing deadlines because of scheduling conflict or uploading the wrong file because you have poor filing system. Find issues that you need to address to prevent yourself from making mistakes in the future.
There are many reasons why people make mistakes in the workplace. Maybe you are feeling pressured or sleep deprived. Some people have problems at home and are distracted at work. Whatever the reason, taking better care of yourself can improve performance at work. This way you can earn the trust of your co-workers again and mistakes will be forgiven and with time, forgotten.
