MISTAKES

We all make them - that is for sure.

Mistakes are not bad, they aren’t stupid, or a sign of failure, be open when you have made a mistake - don’t hide it.

Mistakes are a sign that we are learning, that we don’t know everything, that we are open to change.

If you hide mistakes you will feel isolated and ashamed, opening up about making a mistake allows us to be vulnerable and fosters connection.

Remember - “good judgement comes form experience, and experience can come from bad judgement”

It is important that children know that making a mistake is an opportunity to learn and change, to even ask others for help.

The THREE ‘R’s of recovery are 1) Recognize the mistake with a feeling of responsibility, not blame, 2) Reconcile by apologizing to whoever is offended or hurt and 3) Resolve the problem by working together on a solution.

Using the THREE ‘R’s can help all of us make amends when we have made mistakes and apologize if amends are not possible. They help take the blame, guilt and shame out of making mistakes.