[April 26, 2025] The general rule of leadership is to own up to any mistake you make and do so quickly. In particular, this is true for experienced leaders. Reasons for admitting your mistakes are many and will be listed here. Exemptions, however, for not admitting a mistake are exceedingly rare. One unfortunate exception to admitting one’s mistakes rests with a few politicians.
“In politics… never retreat, never retract… never admit a mistake.” – Napoléon Bonaparte
Most people understand what Napoleon Bonaparte was talking about in this quote. He advised politicians not to admit their mistakes so that their political opposition could exploit them. Many believe this is an unfortunate piece of advice that too many political leaders are prone to follow. The reason is that people will eventually discover the mistake, and trust between the politician and the public will be lost. The link between not admitting a mistake (or outright denying it) and a lie is razor thin.
Some reasons for quickly admitting to mistakes are:
- It shows others that you are human and not that different from those who follow
- It is a sign of humility and makes you more approachable
- Demonstrates that you can be trusted to tell the truth, upfront, and honestly
- Enhances credibility and respect
- Limits the damage that the mistake can cause
- Is the first step to overcoming the mistake
- Shows moral courage
There are more reasons for admitting mistakes of course. This is just to get a flavor of the fact that the preferred course of action is always to admit mistakes and do so early. My boss always told me to bring bad news to him quickly (admit my mistakes) because bad news did not get better with age. That way, my boss could deal with the problem in its early stages and minimize any damage.
Those who fail to admit mistakes, including politicians, set themselves up for greater failure later and are establishing a culture where lying, deceit, dishonesty, double-dealing, and pretense are acceptable forms of behavior.
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EXCELLENT ADVICE.
That’s the way it’s done. Fail to be upfront and address your mistakes by admitting them quickly and without hesitation is a way of truth. And truth is the antidote to poor leadership. Tell the truth. Period. Don’t allow a lie to fester. Tackle the problem and be open about it.
…. and if you’re a kid, do the same. You may be inclined to hide your mistakes from your parents. Don’t do that. You’ll be a better kid for it faster and adults will like you more.
Hey The Kid. Spot on comment. And tell this to your kids.