Leadership Tip of the Day: Henry Ford on Failure

“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently. “
“Even a mistake may turn out to be the one thing necessary to a worthwhile achievement.”
– Henry Ford

Why are we so afraid of failure? Who knows. Failure can clarify, redirect, redefine, open doors, motivate, encourage, inspire, fulfill and so much more. How many “aha” moments have we had after finding out something didn’t work? Seems like too many. My team knows that I’ve had very few (if any) ideas work. I talk about things with such enthusiasm but nothing really works. It’s a wonder I’m still employed in my role! (Kidding – I hope!)Success and Failure Road Sign with dramatic clouds and sky.

Maybe what keeps me employed just might be my willingness to fail.

Behind each of our failures are the beginnings of our great successes, no doubt. Redirected and redefined failures turn out to be the activities that change our businesses and lead to some of our most proud moments as employees.

Words of wisdom by Henry Ford…yes I’m a car enthusiast, you might have caught on if you’ve been reading my few posts. Alfred Sloan (General Motor’s long time Chief) will show up soon, too.