The "errors" that mean you're doing it right

Founder takeaway

Don’t judge a decision solely by whether every outcome looks successful. Some apparent errors may be the predictable cost of making a strong choice; define those acceptable outcomes in advance so you can distinguish them from genuine mistakes.

Why it matters

If founders treat every setback as proof of bad judgment, they can abandon good decisions too early. Clear expectations make it easier to learn without overreacting.

Relevant guides

Put it to work

For one important decision, ask: “Which negative outcomes would still indicate that our underlying choice was sound, and what evidence would show that we actually made a mistake?”