Receiving feedback is an essential part of personal and professional growth. However, the process of hearing and processing feedback can be challenging for many individuals. It’s not just about the words being said, but also about the source of the feedback and the emotions it triggers within us. In this blog post, we will explore the art of receiving feedback and how to hear more than what’s said.
Feedback is often portrayed as a gift, a tool for growth that should be accepted with gratitude. While this is true to some extent, it overlooks the deeply personal history we each have with feedback. As children, feedback from authority figures could have been associated with feelings of fear, rejection, or punishment. These early experiences shape how we perceive and react to feedback as adults.
When receiving feedback, it’s important to consider three key factors: what is being said, who is saying it, and what personal history we associate with it. The person giving feedback is not just a person; they represent something deeper in our minds and hearts. Projection plays a significant role in how we interpret and respond to feedback, as feedback often triggers emotions and memories from our past.
Feedback can also reveal deeper issues within the culture we operate in. For example, feedback that implies a lack of resilience may actually be code for expressing emotions that are not traditionally accepted in a certain environment. Power dynamics can also influence how feedback is received, with those in positions of authority often having more influence over the feedback dynamic.
So, what can you do with all this feedback? First, notice your emotional response and take time to process before responding. Reframe feedback as a dialogue rather than a one-way critique, and take an active role in the conversation. Own the process of receiving feedback by asking questions, seeking clarification, and actively engaging with the feedback.
Ultimately, the real gift of feedback is not just the words being said, but what we learn about ourselves through our reactions. By engaging with feedback in a thoughtful and reflective manner, we can use it as a tool for personal and professional growth. The art of receiving feedback is not just about hearing someone else’s words—it’s about understanding ourselves better and using that understanding to become the best version of ourselves.
If you have enjoyed this article and would like to read more, follow me on Medium for more insights on personal and professional development. Remember, the real growth begins when we embrace the process of receiving feedback with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow. Thank you for reading.
Teach Your Granny: Project Management breaks down the essentials of project management into easy-to-understand language, supported by clear visuals and practical examples. This book is designed to help readers of all ages and backgrounds grasp the fundamental principles of project management quickly and effectively.
