EKAITZ SAIES

Santiago Ramón y Cajal, recipient of the 1906 Nobel Prize in Medicine, once said that the worst thing isn’t making a mistake—it’s trying to justify it.

When we justify a mistake, we avoid taking responsibility for it, which prevents us from learning and growing. Mistakes, however uncomfortable, are an inevitable part of progress. Refusing to acknowledge them creates a mental barrier that blinds us to opportunities for growth and improvement. True responsibility begins with humility—the ability to admit our errors without defensiveness.

If we make a mistake—provided it’s small and reversible (for example, jumping into water from 3 meters and landing awkwardly is not the same as doing so from 35 meters)—we should take the time to reflect and draw objective conclusions. This helps ensure we don’t repeat the same mistake. Acknowledging mistakes isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a mark of strength and maturity. And if we do fail again, it likely means we’re closer to finding the solution. This is the essence of the trial-and-error process: try, fail, learn, and improve.

Every mistake provides valuable insights into what doesn’t work, bringing us one step closer to achieving our goals. Each attempt becomes more meaningful and contributes to refining our decision-making. This iterative process is how humanity has advanced—from scientific breakthroughs to personal achievements. It’s a path paved with failures that teach us, refine us, and ultimately lead us to success.

Steve Jobs, the visionary behind Apple, believed that innovation often involves making mistakes. He emphasized the importance of admitting them quickly and focusing on improving other areas of your work. For Jobs, progress wasn’t about avoiding failure but rather embracing it as a crucial step in the creative process. His philosophy underscores that innovation thrives when we approach setbacks with resilience and adaptability.

The cycle of trying, failing, accepting failure, and trying again is where true learning, innovation, and improvement happen. Each misstep we take sharpens our awareness of what doesn’t work and illuminates the path forward. This mindset applies not only to personal growth but also to businesses, teams, and societies striving for progress.

When we normalize failure as part of the journey, we foster an environment where experimentation, creativity, and growth flourish. The willingness to embrace failure encourages risk-taking and bold ideas. It reminds us that success is not a straight line but a winding road where every stumble holds the potential for a breakthrough.

In the end, failure isn’t something to be feared or avoided. It’s a teacher, a stepping stone, and often the birthplace of our greatest achievements. By owning our mistakes, reflecting on them, and committing to improvement, we align ourselves with a powerful cycle of learning and growth that propels us toward success.