Feedback is data

Situation

You get feedback. You hear it. And perhaps it makes you think. A lot. You need to process it. When you do, be sure to remember that “Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.” —Marcus Aurelius, 121–180 AD. Feedback is data. Don't let it paralyze you. Use it as a tool. Learn what you need to and adjust.

Steps

1. Let the feedback in.

   Really hear it. Don't fight it. It might be uncomfortable at first but will become easier the more you open yourself to the feedback.

2. Digest what you've heard.

   Remember that this is the opinion and perspective of another. It's not fact but it's how you are being perceived. You own what comes next.

3. Decide what to do.

   Feedback is data to act upon. It's also a gift given to you by another. Don't let it go to waste, do something about it. You have the opportunity to actually strengthen your relationship with others when they see you change because of their feedback.

4. Begin making change.

   You don't need to make a massive pivot. Your adjustments can be smaller to start. The important part is that you start. Be intentional and even set milestones if it will help you achieve.

5. Check back in.

   Once you've made a bit of progress, check back in with yourself and others. After a few weeks or months how are you doing? What has changed? Have others noticed? Remember that this isn't a one time thing. You are always learning and growing. Check back in and keep course correcting as you go.

Why

Feedback is data. And it's data that someone cares enough to give to you. Honor that. But don't let it weigh on you to the point where you freeze. Use the data as a tool to grow and improve. And practice this again and again. Soon you'll look back and be amazed at how you've grown.