A trainer's feedback feels demotivating to you. How do you navigate through this challenging situation?

Navigating demotivating feedback from a trainer involves maintaining a constructive mindset. Start by separating the feedback from your self-worth and viewing it as an opportunity for growth. Reflect on the specific points raised, identifying actionable areas for improvement. If the feedback seems unclear or overly harsh, seek clarification from the trainer to better understand their perspective. Communicate your feelings respectfully, expressing your commitment to improvement while highlighting the importance of positive reinforcement. focusing on how you can apply the feedback to enhance your skills and performance. Surround yourself with supportive colleagues and mentors who can provide encouragement and balanced perspectives.

Yes, take a Pause and Reflect positively and patiently. Take a moment to process the feedback without reacting immediately. Consider the intent behind it.

There is hardly any challenge involved in this. Ask the trainer Why is he thinking about you in a negative way. Have a one on one discussion and ask him his perspective on how you can improve. Then set a course of action and do the needful.

Reflect Deeply Take some time to process the feedback before reacting. Consider: Your initial feelings: Acknowledge any emotions such as disappointment or frustration. The feedback content: Focus on the specific points raised by the trainer, rather than the delivery. Your performance: Reflect honestly on your actions and identify areas for improvement.

A trainer's demotivating feedback should never adversely affect your self-worth. Introspection is the key here for self-assessing the situation calmly. Make a list of the points shared, identify the areas for improvement and work towards this goal consistently. Being pessimistic should be the last thing on your mind. Remain optimistic with the attitude to improve yourself with feasible steps as this surely will help you as a professional in the long run!

Seek Clarification Understanding the feedback fully is essential. Steps to take include: Asking for examples: Request specific instances or behaviors that led to the feedback. Clarifying expectations: Ensure you understand what is expected of you moving forward. Requesting constructive advice: Ask how you can improve and what steps you should take.

Always always ask for examples and evidence. If the feedback is opinion based rather than evidence based, they may struggle but it's your right. How can you develop a concrete action plan without tangible examples. I would love to say all trainers are qualified and credible, but there are many who either had a 2 day course or were given training responsibilities because they were good at something. Training is a profession, an art & a skill.

At this point, do not hesitate to reach out and Seek Clarification. If the feedback is unclear or feels harsh, ask for specific examples or suggestions for improvement. This can help turn criticism into constructive advice.

An important component of creating an action plan for improving is to keep a notebook (digital or otherwise) and organize it by three main subjects: 1- Facts. What actually happened, as coldly as you can remember. Write down every detail that comes to mind. Do not draw any conclusions yet. 2- Perception. What you think happened, how you think you handled the situation and what do you think could have been done differently. Be as honest as possible and avoid biases and negative emotions. 3- Feedback received. Write down everything your trainer shared. Now it’s time to compare your notes and establish a plan to improve your performance. Take into account all the facts and data and acknowledge that there’s room for improvement.

Plan for Progress Turn the feedback into an actionable plan by: Setting clear goals: Define specific, measurable objectives based on the feedback. Creating a timeline: Develop a realistic timeline for achieving these goals. Identifying resources: Determine what resources or support you need to succeed.

Time to Focus on Growth~ Shift your mindset from feeling discouraged to viewing feedback as an opportunity for growth. Identify actionable steps to improve.

Engage Support Networks Lean on your support system for guidance and encouragement. This includes: Mentors and colleagues: Seek advice and support from those who have faced similar challenges. Professional networks: Engage with industry groups or forums for additional perspectives and resources. Personal support: Rely on friends and family to maintain your morale and motivation.

I find it hugely helpful to have accountability buddies so we support each other in our growth & development. Having informal learning sets can also help check out the resources available and support each other.n

Now is the time to reach out to peers, friends, mentors et al. And Discuss... Never hesitate to Share your feelings with trusted colleagues or peers. They may provide support, alternative viewpoints, or advice on how to handle the feedback.

Revisit and Reflect Continuously evaluate your progress and adjust your plan as needed by: Regular self-assessment: Periodically review your progress against your goals. Seeking additional feedback: Ask for follow-up feedback from your trainer or peers to gauge your improvement. Adjusting your approach: Be flexible and willing to make changes based on new insights or feedback.

During this process~ *Set Personal Goals~ Use the feedback to create specific, measurable goals. This will help you channel your energy into something productive. *Practice Self-Compassion~ Be kind to yourself. Understand that everyone faces challenges and setbacks in their learning journey. *Consider the Source~ Evaluate the trainer's expertise and their style. Sometimes, feedback styles clash, and it's okay to acknowledge that *Stay Positive~ Keep a positive attitude. Surround yourself with supportive people and engage in activities that boost your motivation.

One of the really pleasing things to do is to revisit a previous development area and measure the improvement. Seeking feedback after intentional action can shift perception and self-belief. Demotivation become inspired motivation.

Maintain Perspective Keep the situation in context and focus on long-term growth by: Staying positive: Focus on the opportunity for growth rather than the negative aspects of the feedback. Remembering your goals: Keep your overall career or personal development goals in mind. Learning from the experience: Use this as a learning opportunity to develop resilience and adaptability

Personally, I have found this quote (from Ralph Waldo Emerson) to be helpful when trying to maintain a healthy perspective on feedback I receive, especially when it's not as positive as I might expect of myself: "Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Sme blunders and absurdities have crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense."