Mantras.

Be fearless when giving feedback, be thankful when receiving it, and then decide what to take on board.

Feedback is how we learn and grow, yet honest feedback is rare. Friends often avoid it because they do not want an awkward conversation. In Japan, not offering constructive criticism can be seen as disrespectful because you are denying someone the opportunity to grow. I love that.

Some people hear feedback as a direct attack on their ego or their value as a person. Do not be the musician who storms out of the audition because the groove does not fit. As the person giving feedback, make sure the recipient knows that you respect them.

Not all feedback is valid. The person offering it may not understand the full picture. Appreciate the effort, then decide what to accept or reject.

Netflix describes this as the four As:

• Aim to help: offer feedback because it can make the work or person better.
• Actionable: make it something the recipient can act on.
• Appreciate: recognise that candid feedback is difficult to give.
• Accept or reject: the recipient decides whether to take it on board.