The Feedback You Need: How to Filter for Growth

Hey there! October has arrived, and with it, the beautiful autumn weather that I’m absolutely loving. I’m still wearing shorts, much to the shock of everyone around me. But coming from Karachi, where weather like this is a rare treat, I’ll enjoy the cold as long as my body can handle it. Today, I want to share a key learning from my TEDx practice sessions that revolved around the power of feedback loops. But first…

Weekly Inventory Check

September is behind us, and whether you completed everything on your list or not, it’s time to assess. What did you achieve? What didn’t get done? And most importantly, why? Take the time to reflect honestly on your capabilities. Be kind to yourself, and ensure you’re not overloading October with leftover tasks. Make it easier for yourself to succeed by planning realistically.

The Power of Feedback

This past weekend, I had an incredible experience meeting the other TEDx speakers for our November event. We had the opportunity to practice our talks in front of each other, with coaches present, and most importantly, we received feedback. The structure was fascinating. We were empowered to ask for the kind of feedback we wanted, and everyone was entitled to share their thoughts.

But here’s the thing: not every piece of feedback applies. This realization was a breakthrough for me. I’ve always asked for feedback from everyone around me, relying on the “wisdom of the crowd” to make decisions. But this session made me understand that it’s not just about averaging everyone’s input. The context of the feedback matters.

Some feedback will be more valuable than others, depending on the giver’s understanding of the context. Are they aware of what you're aiming for? Do they see the full picture? This insight made me think deeper about the feedback I receive in all areas of life.

Additionally, being able to ask for specific types of feedback made the process feel more appropriate and productive. When you know what you want to improve, you’ll be able to filter out the less relevant opinions and focus on the insights that can actually help you grow.

Want More?

1. This article focuses on the importance of being open, curious, and reflective when receiving feedback, treating it as a growth opportunity rather than criticism.

2. Feedback loops drive continuous improvement, foster better communication, and enhance customer satisfaction by addressing specific needs and promoting engagement.

3. Positive feedback loops reinforce beneficial behaviors, creating cycles of success that promote personal and professional growth.

Reels of the Week

This short video highlights the alarming rise of populism and hate crimes across Europe, attributed to four main factors: political exploitation of the refugee crisis, the influence of social media in promoting fear, ingrained human biology, and the European Union's flawed approach to diversity and inclusion.

Thoughts to Leave You With

Next time you're looking to improve, get clear on what you want to work on. Be open to feedback, but remember to evaluate it based on context. Some of the most valuable insights might come from someone who sees the full picture, while other feedback may not apply as much. Knowing the difference is key.