Everyone makes mistakes at work, but how you handle them can make all the difference in maintaining your credibility and reputation. The first step in recovering from a mistake is to take full responsibility. Acknowledge the error as soon as possible, both to yourself and to any affected parties. Avoid making excuses or blaming others—honesty and accountability are key to preserving trust. Once you’ve owned up to the mistake, assess the situation and determine the best way to fix it. Whether it’s correcting a report, redoing a task, or addressing a misunderstanding, focus on resolving the issue quickly and efficiently. After the immediate problem is handled, take the time to reflect on what went wrong and how it can be avoided in the future. Could better communication or planning have prevented the mistake? Is there a skill or process you need to improve? Use the experience as an opportunity for growth. Lastly, keep the mistake in perspective. While errors can feel overwhelming in the moment, most can be corrected, and people are often more forgiving than we think. By taking proactive steps to recover and learn from your mistake, you’ll emerge stronger and more resilient.