Right Kind of Wrong in Ministry

RIGHT KIND OF WRONG IN MINISTRY? Amy Edmondson’s book “The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well”  emphasizes the importance of learning from failure in a constructive, forward-thinking way. 

As I read and reflected on her book, I believe youth pastors/leaders can apply these insights to youth ministry in FIVE key ways:

1. Cultivate Psychological Safety

• Edmondson’s Principle: Psychological safety allows individuals to learn from their failures by speaking up without fear of punishment. In youth ministry, this could look like honest discussions about faith struggles.
• Application: Youth pastors should create an environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, doubts, and mistakes without fear of judgment. A safe space encourages openness and deeper spiritual growth.

2. Promote Growth-Oriented Risk-Taking

• Edmondson’s Principle: Encourage risk-taking as long as failure leads to learning. The key is to view mistakes as an opportunity for growth, not something to avoid at all costs.
• Application: Encourage students to try new things—whether it’s leading a small group, participating in service projects, or sharing their faith—without fearing failure. When they experience challenges, guide them to reflect on what they can learn.

3. Normalize Conversations Around Failure

• Edmondson’s Principle: When failure is normalized, it’s easier for individuals to explore, innovate, and improve. In youth ministry, fostering a culture where failure is discussed removes stigma and enhances learning.

• Application: Use sermons, testimonies, and discussions to talk openly about personal failures, both from the youth pastor and other leaders. This can help students see that failure is part of the journey in faith and life.

4. Encourage Reflection Post-Failure

• Edmondson’s Principle: Learning from failure requires intentional reflection. Youth ministry can use post-event reflections as a tool for students to assess their progress and growth.

• Application: After events, outreach programs, or youth activities, create a space for students to reflect on what went well and what didn’t. Ask questions that help them think critically about what they can do better next time.

5. Foster Collaborative Learning

• Edmondson’s Principle: Collaboration accelerates learning from failure. By fostering a community that learns together, the youth group can collectively grow stronger and more resilient.

• Application: Encourage students to work together, share ideas, and problem-solve as a group. When someone fails, they can draw support and learn from the community rather than feeling isolated in their mistakes.

I belive these principles and applications help youth ministry embrace a culture of learning, growth, and grace, where students feel empowered to grow spiritually and personally through their experiences—both successes and failures.

BUY THE BOOK (RECOMMENDED READING)