Traditionally, failure has been viewed negatively in leadership, but times are changing. Effective leaders now know that failing isn’t final; it’s foundational for growth. Embracing mistakes and learning from them is a defining trait of great leaders, converting missteps into milestones.

Failing forward starts with reframing failure itself. Instead of viewing it as a weakness, leaders recognize it as a valuable lesson. The most successful figures in history, from Oprah Winfrey to Steve Jobs, say their failures built their strength, flexibility, and innovation. By owning up to their mistakes, infrastructure developing leaders set a powerful example for their teams, creating an environment that encourages creativity.

The real power of failing forward lies in its ability to create change. Every failure yields knowledge to improve approaches, hones capabilities, and fortifies perseverance. Leaders who acknowledge and learn from failure and leverage them for personal and professional development motivate and unite their followers. After all, it’s not about staying upright all the time—it’s about learning to rise with greater strength.