Feedback is something that can either build us up or tear us down, strengthen relationships or destroy them, help us grow or hold us back.
Feedback is essential for growth because it provides us with an outside perspective on our actions and performance. It helps us identify blind spots we cannot see ourselves and gives us direction for improvement. Without feedback, we'd be stumbling around in the dark, never knowing if we're improving or if we're completely off track.
Giving Feedback: The Art of Helping Others Grow
When giving feedback, focus on being specific rather than general. Address particular behaviors and situations rather than making broad statements about someone's character or personality.
Focus on behaviors that can actually be changed. There's no point in giving feedback about things that are beyond someone's control or unchangeable aspects of their personality. Make your intent clear. Let them know you're offering feedback because you want to help them succeed, not because you want to criticize or tear them down.
Receiving Feedback: The Skill That Changes Everything
How you receive feedback will determine how much you grow in life. The people who handle feedback well are the ones who advance the fastest in their personal and professional development. Ask clarifying questions to better understand what they're saying. Seek specific details about what they observed and what they suggest you do differently.
Express gratitude for their input. Take time to reflect before responding. You don't have to agree with everything, but look for elements of truth in what they're sharing.
The most successful people actively seek out feedback rather than avoiding it. They understand that feedback isn't about being perfect—it's about continuously improving.
Don't be vague or general in your feedback. Specific, actionable feedback is far more helpful than broad suggestions for improvement. Avoid making feedback about your personal feelings rather than the impact of someone's actions.
Remember, the goal isn't to be perfect. The goal is to keep growing. Feedback, when given and received well, is one of the most powerful tools we have for continuous improvement.