I’m no tech engineer but in a few minutes Steve Jobs will go live and millions of viewers will tune in to listen to him address…a MISTAKE.  Apple and mistake haven’t been frequently used words in a same sentence for some time…maybe since the late 90′s.  No matter who you are, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, a pastor, teacher, or contractor with every mistake remains opportunity.

Truth is when we make a mistake, which we all do, no matter how large or small (even if its a leaking hole of oil in the ocean, or you were unfaithful in a relationship) what really matters is what you do…after.  Far too often we look back wishing we could turn time back and make things right when the true opportunity is in front of us.  What opportunity?  Trust.  In every mistake there is an opportunity to earn trust.

We all know how easy it is to Monday morning quarterback someone else’s decision…but when its you that has failed…what do you do?  Do you own your failure or find ways to spin a failure into someone else’s mistake?  Imagine how much trust can be earned if, as a leader or a human being, we chose to stare failure in the face, embrace it, and apologize not in word but action.  By making things right, no matter what the cost be it financial or pride, we can earn trust with those that we have let down.

Next time someone lets you down…or looses your trust, look for what they do on the other side of the mistake.  True influences and leaders in this life will pick up, make things right, and work to earn your trust back.  Anyone who is willing to that deserves your trust…after all isn’t that what you’d want if it was you who failed?

Next time you fail, which you will, remember…With every mistake is an opportunity to earn trust.

living//PC