Being Open to Failure
There’s value in being open to failure. Facebook, for example, adopted the internal motto “move fast and break things” until 2014. As the Harvard Business Review points out, Mark Zuckerberg intended for this mantra to guide internal design and management processes. As he adopted the entrepreneurial belief that more disruption is always better.
This sentiment is also rooted in the science and engineering fields. As being open to failure often goes hand in hand with innovation in fiercely complex and competitive environments. This approach involves rapidly testing ideas, shipping products weekly, and embracing failure as a means of learning. But what if we no longer need to move fast and break stuff?
While it may seem like a recipe for innovation, it often leads to the creation of low-value products and services. And, in some cases, even harms society. Is it time for a shift in our entrepreneurial mantra? Perhaps one that embraces thoughtful design, deep listening and crafting of creations that truly make a difference.
For far too long, the value of careful thought and design has been overlooked. Companies have become so obsessed with speed and productivity, often sacrificing quality and meaningful impact for a fleeting sense of success.
Is it time to change the narrative? Can we remember creating something meaningful requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to our craft? Can we simply be open to failure as part of the process?
Listening Deeply and Creating What Matters
One way to achieve this shift is by prioritizing active listening and engaging in dialogue. Conversations open us to deep reflection and even allow us to openly dive deep into any failure along the way. By understanding needs and desires, we create products and services that not only address immediate concerns but also contribute to a healthier world.
Moreover, incorporating empathy and imagination into our design process allows us to look beyond the surface and consider the broader implications of our creations. This approach helps us build products that focus on opportunities and also contribute positively to society as a whole.
In addition, we foster a culture that values craftsmanship and thoughtful design. By investing time and energy to imagine, iterate, and refine our ideas, we create lasting impact that can genuinely enhance our lives.
Maybe the time has come to abandon the “move fast and break things” mindset and embrace a new mantra: “listen deeply and create what truly matters.” There is power in deep thinking and listening to create a brighter, more connected future for us all where failure i simply part of learning. And a lot happens when we just ask.