Learning from mistakes is hard. Ego, defensiveness, blame, avoidance, and fear prolong stupidity.
Learning from success is nearly impossible.
Workaholics succeed. Manipulators get ahead. Cutting corners pays for a while.
Failure asks questions. Success makes stupid look smart.
The Unexpected Blunder of Letting Success Make You Stupid
It takes humility to succeed skillfully.
#1. Conduct a “Success Autopsy”
Dissect success before it turns into failure.
Look beyond yourself for reasons you succeeded.
- What went right that we didn’t plan for?
- Where did good fortune or timing bail us out?
- What did this success cost? Burnout, strained relationships, ignored priorities, or cut corners.
#2. Replace “I did it” with “We did it.”
Success has more contributors than leaders realize.
- Who contributed to success? Be specific. “We succeeded because Mary …”
- Who deserves more credit than they’re receiving?
- What aspects of success didn’t depend on you?
Complete this sentence before you speak to anyone: “This success belongs to ________ because they ________, and it wouldn’t have happened without them.”
See success as stewardship. Instead of thinking, “I’m exceptional,” think, “I’m grateful for ________.”
#3. Measure Success by People Development
Hero leaders celebrate achievements.
Humble leaders celebrate the growth of others.
Instead of, “What did I accomplish?” Ask, “Who became more capable because I led them?”
Next time ask, “How can others do this without?”
True leadership success makes you less essential.
#4. Stay Teachable.
The greatest danger of winning is feeling you’ve arrived.
- What did I miss?
- What would make this better next time?
- What would someone who disagrees with me say?
The unexpected blunder isn’t failure. It’s mistaking success for wisdom.
Success is temporary; humility stays curious.
How might leaders solve the unexpected blunder?
Why Smart Leaders Do Stupid Things – Leadership Freak
Hidden Dangers Of Sustained Team Success Leaders Should Watch For Forbes
