Feedback Thoughts

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The first article that I read was 5 Tips for Taking Feedback Like a Champ by Megan Bruneau. She explains that feeling uncomfortable isn’t a reason to avoid getting constructive feedback. I agree with this, because refusing to accept someone else’s advice or opinions is limiting yourself and your project goals. Bruneau also explains that starting a project while you still have areas you need to improve in is not a bad thing. All it means is that you have room to grow, which is an opportunity we should all take whenever it is presented to us. Bruneau also explains ‘state’ vs. ‘trait’, meaning that we take criticism for what might be a behavioral or incidental issue and “turn it into a characteristic about ourselves”. If given feedback on a specific issue, don’t automatically turn it into a problem about your whole self. The article also explains how to take critique and see it in a positive light instead of a negative one. For example, if someone tells you that you are too quiet, maybe you are more aware of your surroundings at the same time. Lastly, Bruneau suggests applying mindfulness and compassion to the criticism you receive in order to fully understand why you were given that criticism. Perhaps the person critiquing you wants to see you better yourself and has good intentions regarding whatever you are working on. You can access this article here : link.
The second article I read was 6 Mental Habits to Sabotage Your Success by Amy Morin. Morin explains that making excuses and avoiding critique will only hurt you in your endeavors. She also says that if you’re one who always tends to look at the possible negative outcomes of a situation rather than the positive, you are limiting yourself and may not try as hard to obtain what you want. Looking toward the negative is something that I struggle against myself, but Morin makes a good point that this will get me nowhere. She also explains that people who constantly seek the approval of others are limiting themselves, too. I interpret this as not willing to branch out and try new things because you are afraid of the criticism you might receive. Fear of criticism seems to hinder people and their projects greatly, but really it can be a productive way to push your work to the next level. Finally, Morin talks a great deal on how not believing in your capabilities and constantly doubting yourself will not get you anywhere. I personally believe that in order to go far in life, you have to be your number one supporter. So, listen carefully to the advice others give you, but always go in the direction that you think is appropriate and true to what you believe. You can access Morin’s article here: link.