In 1976, I was the co-organizer of the SGI sponsored Bicentennial parade for the city of New York. We did a great job of delegating responsibilities, but I decided that only I was capable enough to lead the several cars carrying the VIPs including the governor to the review stand. Unfortunately, I hadn't taken the time to remind myself of the parade route, so I guided the waving VIPs past the review stand and almost all the way to Central Park!
After turning the cars around, I had to part several marching bands, drill teams and horseback riders to get the VIPs back to where they belonged. Truly a chaotic experience for all involved. However, I learned a valuable lesson about checking every detail of a plan and delegating responsibility as well as the negative impact of arrogance.
When I make a mistake, I feel a combination of emotions -- vulnerability, regret, dismay and guilt. These reactions are normal. I really don't like to disappoint people, especially my family and friends. The challenge is to find the benefit in my mistakes – like learning how to be more patient with others and myself.
Author Neil Gaiman has said, "I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You're doing things you've never done before, and more importantly, you're doing something."
Now when I do something wrong, after spending a short period of remorse in my internal muddy swamp, I apologize. If necessary, I chant for wisdom, self-reflect and make a determination not to make the same mistake again. I then try to move on with my life. Allowing myself to dwell on the failure only lends it greater import. No one is perfect. And seeking perfection is a futile endeavor. Instead of bemoaning my failure, I set out to make brand new mistakes!