Heloisa Nogueira and Thamara Belinatti
In the book The Right Way to Fail, Harvard Business School professor Amy C. Edmondson deconstructs the traditional view of failure, proposing that it can be a strategic ally for success. According to the author, over decades of research into psychological safety, she observed that the relationship with error is often misunderstood; in many environments, it is viewed either as something to be avoided at all costs or, conversely, as something desirable. In both cases, the opportunity to turn failure into a structured learning experience is overlooked.
Edmondson categorizes errors into three main types: basic, complex, and intelligent. Basic errors—stemming from inattention or a lack of preparation—are avoidable and should be prevented, as they offer little learning value and can be detrimental. Complex errors, resulting from multifaceted challenges and uncertainties, are inevitable in novel situations and provide valuable learning opportunities. Finally, intelligent errors—associated with experimentation and innovation—are the most beneficial; they arise from deliberate attempts to create something new and are fundamental to progress.
An environment of psychological safety—a core concept for the author—is essential for turning errors into learning experiences. In such an environment, people feel comfortable admitting shortcomings and sharing their mistakes, knowing they will not be punished or judged for doing so. This type of space is particularly important in organizations, where accepting intelligent errors fosters innovation and collective growth.
This mindset is especially valuable in a job market that prizes innovation and adaptability. As the author emphasizes, transforming shame and guilt into curiosity fosters a safe, innovative work environment that is essential for both personal and collective growth. When leveraged effectively, errors become stepping stones to progress, turning failure not into an end point, but into part of the journey toward success.
Edmondson’s message is clear: true success is not defined by an absence of errors, but by the ability to learn from them and use them to achieve more solid, lasting accomplishments. After all, anyone who has never made a mistake at work has failed to reinforce the very lessons needed to build a successful professional career.
