From 'F*ck Off' to 'Thank You': A Journey to Embracing Feedback

Why do we sometimes have that urge to tell the person giving us feedback to "f*ck off"?

We have all been there. And let me tell you, it's not because we're just a bunch of stubborn jerks (okay, maybe sometimes). It's because feedback can be incredibly triggering. It's like a spotlight shining on our weaknesses & vulnerabilities, & nobody likes feeling exposed like that. But guess what? That discomfort is actually a sign that there's something valuable in what's being said.

I remember the first time I received some tough feedback. It was early in my career, & I thought I was doing a great job. But then my boss called me into his office & proceeded to list off a laundry list of things I needed to improve on. I felt like I had been punched in the gut. And I am sure I slammed his door on the way out! Nice move Simon.

But then, after a few days of licking my wounds, I started to think about what he had said. And you know what? He was right. I hadn't been open to new ideas or ways of doing things. His feedback stung, but it also helped me grow & become a better employee.

So why do we resist feedback so much? Well, for one thing, it's uncomfortable. It's never fun to hear that we're not perfect (I know, I know, I'm shocked too). But here's the thing: nobody's perfect. We all have blind spots & areas where we can improve. And if we're not open to feedback, we're never going to see those areas.

Another reason we resist feedback is because it can feel like a personal attack. When someone tells us we need to improve in a certain area, it can feel like they're saying we're not good enough. But that's not true! Feedback is just a way for us to get better. It's not a judgment on our worth as a person.

So how do we get better at taking feedback? Well, the first step is to recognize that it's a valuable tool for growth. Instead of seeing it as a negative thing, try to reframe it as an opportunity to learn & improve. And remember, just because someone gives you feedback doesn't mean they're right. You get to decide whether or not to take it to heart.

And finally, try to approach feedback with a growth mindset. Instead of seeing it as a criticism, see it as a challenge. How can you use this feedback to improve & become a better version of yourself? By embracing feedback & using it as a tool for growth, you'll not only become a better professional, but you'll also become a better person.

So the next time someone gives you feedback, don't tell them to f*ck off (even though you might want to). Instead, take a deep breath, listen with an open mind, & remember that there's some truth to what they're saying.