More Than One Mistake: a lesson for ages 18 to 25
One slip in a presentation shows how five minutes went, not what you contribute overall. Your self-worth is not decided by one mistake.
Practice this lesson Watch the video
The situation
You and a coworker just finished presenting a quarterly update to your manager at work.
- Coworker: Well, we made it through.
- You: I messed up that whole second slide, man.
- Coworker: It was just one number. You fixed it fast.
- You: Still. I feel like I totally blew the whole thing.
You messed up a chart during a team work presentation. Back at your desk, you start thinking you are not qualified for your job.
What would you do?
- a
- b
See the recommended choice and why
Recommended choice
a
One slip in a presentation shows how five minutes went, not what you contribute overall. Your self-worth is not decided by one mistake. Remind yourself of your real strengths, like being reliable or great at problem-solving, and talk with a trusted coworker or mentor who can give you an honest perspective.
Your next step
List two strengths you bring to your job or studies that go beyond a single task.
Words you can use
“One bad presentation doesn't mean I'm bad at my job.”
Sources
Lessons draw on guidance from these organizations. They link to it and do not reproduce it.
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