“I f^&*ed up, Captain.”
From Tom Peters’ “Thud” post today:
“I do not accept personal responsibility for what happened.” Patricia Dunn, former Chairman, Hewlett-Packard, sworn testimony before the United States House of Representatives on 28 September 2006.
Mr. P then goes on to discuss the implications of this statement, using his own example from serving in Vietnam where he actually admitted (gasp): “I f^&*ed up, Captain.” Now, he did this in a true life and death situation - seems to me our so-called leaders here in the U.S. of A. could get up the gumption to accept some responsibility, in business and government. Admitting to mistakes isn’t weakness - it’s strength.
Dwight Eisenhower, on the eve of D-Day (when we really were fighting for civilization), drafted two letters - one if they made a successful landing; one if they didn’t. It’s the second one that is the true measure of his leadership. He wrote, “If any fault or blame attaches to this attempt, it is mine alone.” Hmmm…sure beats “I think I may need a bathroom break.” doesn’t it?
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October 3rd, 2006 at 7:29 pm
You can’t own the brand if you don’t own your failures.
I knew you would second Mr. Peters on this matter. And I really like your IKE reference.
I just finished The Boys of Pointe du Hoc by Douglas Brinkley.
Great example of owning the outcomes especially when the plan doesn’t work as it was drawn up.
As always, thanks for stirring the pot!
October 4th, 2006 at 9:26 am
Own your failures then go into rehab.