We all know that mistakes and feedback are the source of growth and success. So why is it so difficult for us to deal with them?
Have you noticed this too? You can talk to people about almost anything and have a really good time—until the topic of mistakes and feedback comes up. Suddenly, things get tense. You’re not quite sure if or how to address it, and when you finally do, you can almost feel the atmosphere turn colder and heavier.
Research shows that when we receive negative feedback, the amygdala—the brain’s “alarm center”—is activated. Criticism is perceived as a social threat and triggers the same stress responses as physical danger. Adrenaline and cortisol levels rise, as do heart rate and blood pressure. We frown and hunch our shoulders forward. What used to be the saber-toothed tiger is now critical feedback. Our reaction is often very similar to that of our ancestors: “fight,” “flight,” or “freeze.”
However, those who are aware of this and can observe their physical reactions create the foundation for remaining composed and open to feedback. In the literature, this is referred to as “stepping out”—it allows us to step beyond ourselves and understand what is happening within us. It creates the basis for self-regulation and learning.
Various studies confirm that teams with a strong culture of learning from mistakes significantly outperform average teams—for example, in call centers they achieve a higher “first call resolution”, in hospitals significantly fewer complications during operations, and in industrial settings significantly lower rework costs.
Professional athletes are familiar with the benefits of honest feedback. It is part of their daily routine—after every game and every training session. Both positive and negative feedback are taken for granted, and even if it sometimes hurts, they know it is the foundation for excellence.
I once had the chance to speak with Giannis Antetokounmpo—one of the best basketball players in the world—and his brothers about mistakes and feedback in sports. I asked them how they deal with losses and mistakes. Giannis looked at me and said: “In sports, there are no mistakes—every mistake is a step toward success.”
He follows the philosophy of Nelson Mandela: “I never lose. I either win or learn.”
I will never forget that—and I believe it’s time we also find the courage in our organizations to embrace the “saber-toothed tiger,” in the spirit of: “Thank you, mistake—you are my coach.”
This post was published by Wolfgang Jenewein on LinkedIn on November 6, 2025. Zum Original-Beitrag