Feedback vs. Criticism

We know there is a difference, yet sometimes feedback is received as criticism.

Although you cannot change how someone delivers the message, you can, by looking at how you receive it, alter your experience and feelings resulting from it:

1. Focus on WHAT they are telling you (the actual words, not your interpretation)
2. Forget WHY they are telling you (assume it is to help you in some way)
3. Ignore HOW they are telling you (this is the hardest one)

I know, I know, people remember how you made them feel, not what you said. Yes, that is true, but you are on the receiving end here. Help yourself by practicing the above.

Then worry about becoming better at delivering feedback yourself when that is called for.

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