Your organization already has a mistake policy–it just might not be the one you think it is.
Most companies say they support learning and continuous improvement. But here's the real test:
What actually happens when someone makes a mistake?
No, what really happens?
Do people pause with curiosity–or react with blame?
Do they feel safe to speak up–or do they go quiet?
Are mistakes surfaced early–or buried until they grow into something bigger?
If we've learned anything from our work in Lean and continuous improvement, it's that the answers to those questions define your actual culture. Not what's printed on posters or written in policies–but what shows up in the moment, especially under pressure.
Your culture's “mistake policy” lives in how leaders respond when things don't go according to plan. It shows up in body language, tone of voice, and the first question someone asks after a problem is discovered:
- “Who did this?”
- or “What can we learn from this?”
It's not about letting people off the hook–it's about choosing learning over fear. It's about recognizing that most mistakes are signals from our systems, not defects in our people.
If we want innovation, resilience, and long-term performance, we have to create space for imperfection–without falling into excuse-making or complacency.
That kind of environment doesn't happen by accident. It's built on:
- Psychological safety
- Leadership behavior and mindset
- Systems that support reflection and improvement–not punishment
If you're not sure what your current mistake policy really is, try this:
Ask a few people–especially those closest to the work–this question:
“What happens around here when someone messes up?”
Then stop talking. Listen closely. Reflect honestly.
If what you hear isn't what you hope for, don't blame the culture–lead the change.
Or, if employees are afraid to engage in a discussion about this, that's telling too.
I've created a simple one-question poll over on LinkedIn (click here) to help spark some reflection and dialogue. I'd love for you to weigh in and share your thoughts. Feel free to comment below, as well.
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Please scroll down (or click) to post a comment. Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Let’s work together to build a culture of continuous improvement and psychological safety. If you're a leader looking to create lasting change—not just projects—I help organizations:
- Engage people at all levels in sustainable improvement
- Shift from fear of mistakes to learning from them
- Apply Lean thinking in practical, people-centered ways
Interested in coaching or a keynote talk? Let’s start a conversation.
