The Doctrine of Fail First
In many circles, failure is taboo. “Avoid failure at all costs,” some say. “There’s no excuse for failure,” others chime in. But that mindset breeds fear, stagnation, and a loss of innovation.
In The League of Extraordinary Beings, we approach failure differently. We fail first. Not recklessly, but strategically.
We make it clear to our members that we not only expect them to fail but encourage it. Wasting money, breaking equipment, losing radios in a swamp – these are not just accepted; they are expected. This expectation empowers our members to test boundaries, explore new ideas, and learn through experience.
Embrace Failure, Embrace Growth
Failure isn’t a setback; it’s a step forward. Our members must become accustomed to failing, feeling embarrassed, and having their hopes dashed. But more importantly, they should know that failing first is not just tolerated but embraced and supported. When failure is in the plan, it ceases to be a problem.
Mitigate Risk Through Strategic Thinking
By planning for failure, we allow ourselves to engage in higher levels of risk. Through strategic thinking, we provide the insight needed to look past immediate concerns, focusing on long-term goals. Planning for failure doesn’t just bring comfort; it offers a strategic advantage.
The Iterative Process: Learning Through Repetition
Documenting our failures and analyzing them means that we’re not just failing; we’re learning. The iterative process of doing, failing, analyzing, and repeating quickly allows sections to find more effective ways to manage and adapt to rapidly changing conditions.
Recovery and Rebound
An organization good at failure is also good at recovery and rebound. Every failure becomes a stepping stone on our path to victory. Through debriefs, hot washes, and pow wows, we become adept at learning from our mistakes. By planning to fail intently, we cultivate an environment where growth and learning happen rapidly.
We don’t just tolerate failure; we embrace it. We harness it. We plan for it. Because in failure, there are lessons, growth, and the seeds of future success. The Doctrine of Fail First is not a call to carelessness but a roadmap to resilience, innovation, and triumph.