Receiving feedback whether you feel that it’s positive or negative, constructive or destructive, is an inevitable part of life and is especially important in sport.
Positive feedback can be a wonderful thing. It assures us that we are moving in the right direction. But we have to be open to ALL of the honest feedback we receive and not just brush off those that we don’t like or agree with. Constructive feedback can sometimes be trickier to take, especially depending on how it is given and received.
In sport we can be quick to blame external factors for our poor performance or put the feedback down to “just someone else’s opinion”. But in order to keep moving forward and improve we need to REALLY take time to hear the feedback we receive, process it and put it into action.
For me, it’s all about how we frame and view the context from which someone is giving you feedback. In my own experience I have found it helpful to remember that if someone is taking time to give you feedback, then it’s highly likely that they care and want to see you improve and excel.
I sometimes find the hardest part of receiving feedback is trying not to be overwhelmed by my emotions. Whether it’s trying not to cry or get frustrated and angry, deep breaths and taking some time to let the emotions settle is always a good idea.
Feedback is essential for growth and how we choose to respond to it (because yes we do have a choice) will shape our future in sport and in life.