Embrace feedback as a tool for development

- Feedback is often perceived as daunting, but it's a mirror showing who we are and who we can become. Imagine approaching feedback, not as criticism, but as a compass that guides you towards improvement. It's about shifting from a defensive stance to one of curiosity and openness. But how do you ask for feedback? Start with specific questions rather than a general, "how did I do?" Ask what are one or two things I could improve on in my presentation skills? This makes it easier for others to provide constructive feedback and shows you're committed to growth. Once you've received feedback, the key is to process it with a growth mindset. Acknowledging that your current performance is a starting point for development. This can be tricky to do in the moment, if you've heard something that you don't want to hear that makes you defensive, or if you disagree with the feedback, but it is possible with practice. Let's explore the four S's of processing feedback. Sort, strategize, seek clarification and synthesize. Sort the feedback into categories. What relates to skills? What is about work habits? Which pieces of feedback refer to interpersonal qualities? Strategize how to address each category. Is one category, particularly crucial for your career development, such as learning a new skill or building stronger relationships with key stakeholders. Gets clear on your development priorities. Seek clarification if feedback isn't clear. This shows engagement and a desire to understand. It is, however, crucial that your inquiries into the specifics of feedback sound curious rather than defensive. Finally, synthesize the feedback into an action plan. Detail the feedback you will address and how you will do this and when. Depending on your development priorities, you might also decide that there are feedback points you won't address right now. You can reframe feedback as a learning tool and use feedback as a catalyst for experimenting with new roles and identities, which is essential for growth and career transitions. No one is perfect and feedback isn't about perfection, it's about progression. The most successful individuals and organizations continuously learn, adapt, and evolve. Embrace both giving and receiving feedback. When you provide constructive feedback to others, you contribute to a culture of growth. When you receive it, you model how to accept it with grace and a drive to improve. I invite you to consider feedback as the Breakfast of Champions. Feast on it, digest it, and use its nourishment to reach new heights in your career.