Anders Denken Podcast #34 - Fail brilliantly in order to grow with Bas Ruyssenaars

In episode #34 of the Anders Denken Podcast, we speak with Bas Ruyssenaars, co-founder of the Institute for Brilliant Failures and CEO of YOU.FO. Bas has been helping organizations look differently at innovation, risk and learning processes for more than 15 years. His main message: in a complex world you have to learn to experiment, and sometimes that means failure.

Why failure is indispensable in a complex world

Organizations tend to plan, control and avoid risk. But according to Bas, that doesn't work in an environment where change is rapid and problems have multiple causes. "You have to learn to navigate," he says. "In small steps forward, look back, learn and try again." In this regard, failure is not a mistake, but a brilliant attempt that turns out differently and, for that very reason, provides valuable lessons.

The sixteen patterns of failure

The Institute for Brilliant Failures developed 16 recognizable patterns of failure that help organizations see through patterns and learn faster. Consider:

• The empty seat at the table - a forgotten stakeholder
• The canyon - entrenched routines that inhibit progress
• The wrong wallet - interests clashing
• The hidden island - good ideas without connection

Recognizing such patterns creates space to make new choices.

Leadership requires vulnerability

Innovation succeeds only when employees dare to experiment. And that starts with leadership.
Bas: "If people don't dare to fail, they don't dare to learn. Leaders must therefore be examples in sharing failures and creating psychological safety." For organizations that want to be agile - or simply want to keep learning - this is not a luxury, but a necessity.

Curious about patterns of failure and how your organization can make more room for experimentation? Listen to episode #34 of the Different Thinking Podcast below.