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Able Quote by Tim Harford

“Accepting trial and error means accepting error. It means taking problems in our stride when a decision doesn't work out, whether through luck or misjudgment. And that is not something human brains seem to be able to do without a struggle.” quote by Tim Harford
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“Accepting trial and error means accepting error. It means taking problems in our stride when a decision doesn't work out, whether through luck or misjudgment. And that is not something human brains seem to be able to do without a struggle.”

Tim Harford

About This Quote

Source Book: The Undercover Economist, Tim Harford, 2005

Accepting trial and error acknowledges that mistakes are inevitable and that learning comes from handling setbacks without excessive distress.

In simple terms: Mistakes happen; handle them calmly.

Key Takeaway

Embrace errors as learning opportunities.

Themes

resilience learning decision-making

Mood

reflective encouraging

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • entrepreneurship
  • product development
  • personal growth
  • team management
  • scientific research

Key Concepts

growth mindset cognitive flexibility risk tolerance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you reframe failure as feedback?
  • What strategies help maintain composure when plans falter?
A Different Perspective

Human brains often resist uncertainty, making it hard to stay calm during failure.

3.5 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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