Growth starts when you stop guessing and start asking—feedback speeds improvement and shrinks blind spots.
Why feedback matters
Feedback shows what you miss, helps you improve faster, and prevents you from repeating small mistakes that add up.
Where to get feedback
Ask friends, coworkers, mentors, online communities, and customers. Each group gives different perspective and value.
When to ask
Ask right after a task, after a milestone, and on a regular schedule (weekly or monthly) so you build a habit.
How to ask — short scripts
Use short, specific requests: “Can you tell me two things I did well and one thing I should change?”
SBI script: “In [Situation], you did [Behavior]. The impact was [Impact]. What would you suggest I do next?”
Start Stop Continue: “What should I start, stop, and continue doing?”
3 Questions: “What went well? What didn't? One fix you'd suggest?”
Handling tough feedback
Pause, breathe, and ask for an example. Say, “Help me understand one specific moment so I can improve.”
Avoid defending. Treat feedback as data. If it stings, write it down and revisit later with a calmer head.
Sort signal from noise
Look for patterns across multiple people and weigh expertise. If one loud voice disagrees with several quiet ones, prioritize the pattern.
Ask follow-up questions to test whether a point is preference or a real problem.
Turn feedback into action
Triage suggestions: quick wins, high-impact changes, and ideas to shelve. Pick one tiny first step and set a deadline.
Example script to commit: “I'll try X for two weeks and check back with you on [date].” Track results and request round-two feedback.
Mini examples
Life: Ask a friend, “What's one small habit I should stop to feel less stressed?”
Career: Ask a manager, “Which one skill would make the biggest difference for my next promotion?”
Relationships: Ask your partner, “What's one thing I did this week that helped you feel supported?”
1. Ask one specific person for feedback this week.
2. Use a script (SBI or Start Stop Continue).
3. Pick one small change and set a deadline.
4. Track the result for two weeks.
5. Check back with the same person for round-two feedback.
Try this today: Ask one person for SBI feedback on a recent task and commit to one small change to try for two weeks.
