Humans | Perspe(c)tives

Carla Rodrigues Cardoso

It’s out of fashion. So out of fashion. Overwhelmed by speed, responsibility often falls behind. Before we know it, guilt has died single and we’re already onto something else. Time doesn’t stop.

Admit mistakes? Say sorry? That’s for the weak. But is taking responsibility really a sign of weakness?

Unfortunately, it seems to be a sign of courage. And it’s rare. Whether in small or large matters, admitting one has erred seems difficult for a large number of people. It’s not entirely clear why. There is a Portuguese saying: “Only those who do not work do not make mistakes.” And those who work always end up making mistakes, sooner or later. It is human.

So, why do we live afraid of owning up to our mistakes? Do we wish to forget our humanity? If someone were perfect, the idea of perfection wouldn’t be so profitable – the cream that guarantees perfect skin, the trousers that fit perfectly, the perfect book to read on the beach, just to give a few examples.

The next time we make a mistake, there’s no need to overthink. Take a deep breath, take responsibility, and acknowledge: we are human. Flesh and blood, just like everyone around us. Accepting and admitting the mistakes we make places us on the level closest to perfection. Whatever that may be.

Carla Rodrigues Cardoso
Associate Professor (ECATI)
Scientific Coordinator of MagLab (CICANT)
Lusófona University - Lisbon University Centre