Perfection isn’t a realistic goal for leaders—nor is it desirable. When you recognize and admit mistakes, you are more likely to build trust among your team members and encourage open communication. Here are a few ways you can embrace imperfection and even use it to your advantage.

1. Take responsibility for your mistakes. When you can say, “I got it wrong,” you are showing integrity and letting staff members know they can admit their own mistakes without shouldering blame. An environment where employees feel safe will encourage them to be honest, bold, and creative.
    
2. Use mistakes as a learning opportunity. Prioritize growth over perfection. Mistakes are an opportunity to reflect and learn so that processes can be improved. Instead of focusing on blame, you are encouraging your team to embrace challenges and find solutions.
    
3. Model conflict management. Mistakes often cause strong emotions and conflict among team members. Don’t run away from conflict. Show your employees that it’s okay to confront disagreements and resolve them constructively.
    
4. Say, ‘I’m sorry.’ Those two little words do a lot to facilitate forgiveness and repair trust. Follow up an apology by asking how you can make the situation better.
    

For more advice, read “Perfect Isn’t Credible: Admitting Mistakes Improves Leadership Effectiveness.”