A common mistake...

When I was a child, one of the things that I liked most was to learn how to sing the Brazilian National anthem.

But, I was the only one - being considered one of the most difficult in the world (at least, we Brazilian think that), its lyrics are not only old in age, but very unique and elaborated.

In fact, most people don't know how to sing it. Those who know usually make mistakes at the time of singing.

This is why I was very empathic when Shakira, a Colombian singer you probably have heard about, made the mistake and spoke a word that did not exist. Jokes were everywhere in the web. In fact, she did not create a new word, it was just that she forgot one letter. One letter, and the whole meaning was lost.

On the other hand, that shows something very important: even though you don't realise, your steps as leader are being watched very closely.

We are on the stage of humankind, at a time of need, a time of decision and a probable big inflection in human history. Everyone is watching those who are creating the next era for humanity.

That means you do need to study, research, to be coached and taught. You do need to learn, and keep on learning, and rehearse and change, and be humble.

That mistake overshadowed completely her speech during the Summit of Americas. Which was more important, the mistake or the speech? A leader in many ways, Shakira has created her foundation for poor people to be able to learn much before than other celebrities in Colombia, opening a social branch that was almost non-existent before. Her Barefoot Foundation is an inspiration.

As a Colombian, she helped the name of the country, tainted by so many bad news, to improve. Even though she dared to enter the English-speaking world, she is Colombia for many people, and I still remember the intense emotion of reaching a simple hotel in Bombay, turn on the TV and watch Shakira singing there...

So, what is more important? And yet, one-letter mistake and a whole life can be forgotten.

Next time, don't be afraid of learning again whatever you learned in the past. Specially your National Anthem.