Be Greater with Feedback

I learn, grow and am stronger with feedback.

I finally came to the AHA that receiving all types of feedback are gifts, regardless of how it might feel at the moment. Sure, I am the first to admit it is heart-warming to receive encouragement and praise for a job well done. And constructive feedback is great, too, because it helps me change my behavior. And while criticism sucks, it is a powerful valuable source of information.

Information is power.

These are my secrets for keeping my cool when being criticized.

• Breathe. Count to 10 then breathe some more.

• Listen without making excuses or becoming defensive.

• Summarize what I’ve heard.

• Share my thoughts and feelings about the feedback. Discuss as appropriate.

• Say “thanks.”

There is usually at least a grain of truth amidst the criticism. I make the appropriate changes.

Because others sense they can give me feedback without invoking a strong negative reaction, I am greater.

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