Better by Mistake: The Unexpected Benefits of Being Wrong
by Alina Tugend

Published by Riverhead

In this persuasive book, journalist Alina Tugend examines the delicate tension between what we're told -- we must make mistakes in order to learn -- and the reality -- we often get punished for them. In Better by Mistake, she shows us that mistakes are everywhere, and when We acknowledge and identify them correctly; we can improve not only ourselves, but our families, our work, and the world around us as well.

Through fascinating research, Tugend reveals how cultural attitudes about mistakes can affect us from the earliest stages in Our lives and shape us into adults who steer clear of risks and challenges. She takes us behind the scenes into cutting-edge behavioral studies; invites us into the high-stakes world of health care and aviation, where mistakes can cost lives; and delves into the art and science behind learning how to craft a sincere apology and taking responsibility for mistakes.

Bold and dynamic, insightful and provocative, Better by Mistake turns our cultural wisdom on its head to illustrate the downside of striving for perfection and the rewards of acknowledging and accepting mistakes and embracing the imperfection in all of us.

pub date: 2011-03-17 | Hardcover | 9781594487859