Proof You’re In the Game

“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing.”
– Henry Ford

Mistakes challenge our ego, and we don’t like that. The perfectionist goes to exhausting lengths to avoid every possible error, while the underachiever dismisses every careless misstep. Both men — and you, to some degree — share the same problem: it’s not the mistakes. It’s the mindset.

Two kinds of mistakes:

1. Occasional Mistakes Occasional mistakes are inevitable — but they’re not meaningless. A single misstep could cost you more than you realize, so don’t dismiss it. Acknowledge it, fix what needs fixing, and move on.
2. Repeated Mistakes These are a different beast. They reveal a lack of focus, effort, or discipline. They’re signs of neglect — and they’ll keep standing in your way until you find the courage to face them.

Here’s a powerful truth: mistakes don’t define you — how you respond to them does.

Let go of the story that mistakes equal failure. Mistakes are proof you’re in the game.

The blackbelt move? Start performing an After-Action Review (AAR) after every meaningful effort.

Analyze. Adjust. Improve. Repeat.