How to Handle Feedback that Challenges Your Self-Perception

As a leadership coach, I've seen firsthand how difficult it can be for people to receive feedback that challenges their self-perception. It can be tempting to dismiss the feedback, argue with the person giving it, or simply ignore it. But if you want to grow and develop as a leader, it's important to be able to handle feedback in a constructive way.

Here are some tips for handling feedback that challenges your self-perception:

1. Listen actively. The first step is to listen actively to the feedback. This means paying attention to what the person is saying, both verbally and nonverbally. It also means avoiding interrupting or making excuses.

2. Ask clarifying questions. Once you've listened to the feedback, ask clarifying questions to make sure you understand it. This will help you to get a deeper understanding of the feedback and how it's affecting you.

3. Take a moment to reflect. After you've listened to the feedback and asked clarifying questions, take a moment to reflect on it. This will help you to process the feedback and decide how you want to respond.

4. Be open to the feedback. It's important to be open to the feedback, even if it's not what you want to hear. The feedback may be challenging, but it can also be valuable. If you're open to it, the feedback can help you to grow and develop as a leader.

5. Don't take it personally. It's important to remember that the feedback is not about you as a person. It's about your behavior or your performance. Try not to take the feedback personally.

6. Thank the person for the feedback. Even if you don't agree with the feedback, it's important to thank the person for giving it to you. This shows that you're open to feedback and that you value their opinion.

7. Take action. If the feedback is valid, take action to address it. This could mean changing your behavior, improving your skills, or setting new goals.

It's also important to remember that feedback is a gift. It's an opportunity to learn and grow. So, next time you receive feedback that challenges your self-perception, try to remember these tips. It may be difficult, but it's worth it in the long run.

Here are some additional tips for handling feedback that challenges your self-perception:

• Be patient with yourself. It takes time to change your self-perception. Don't expect to change overnight.

• Be persistent. Don't give up if you don't see results immediately. Keep working at it and you will eventually see progress.

• Find a trusted advisor. Talk to someone you trust about the feedback you've received. They can help you to process the feedback and develop a plan for improvement.

• Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you're struggling to handle the feedback, don't be afraid to ask for help from a coach or therapist.

Receiving feedback that challenges your self-perception can be difficult, but it's an important part of growth and development. By following these tips, you can learn to handle feedback in a constructive way and use it to become a better leader.

So, the next time you receive feedback that challenges your self-perception, remember that it's a gift. It's an opportunity to learn and grow. Be open to the feedback, take action, and you will eventually see progress.