How do you learn from surprising feedback?

True!As human there is always "energy in motion = e-motion" and we emote them in unique ways. Sometimes it gets expressed in pleasant ways, at time it's the opposite. Self-Awareness is the KEY to hack our emotions that does not serve us well. It's a conscious habit we have to build brick by brick and build our sweet spot within us to stay alert. Do try this - next time there is an unpleasant trigger of emotions, it's OK! Become AWARE-move your body physically and go touch a plant or stare at the SKY with deep inhalation and exhalation. LET GO of that inner anxiety, -ve emotion that disturbed you. Say to yourself I AM RELAXED, JUST SMILE breathe in and out and be in that MODE OF SELF-AWARENESS. Carry the inner smile throughout the day:)

One thing I have found helpful is to ask for specific evidence that supports the feedback given. Change is tough and uncomfortable, so is the feedback based on emotion or is the feedback because a process truly isn't working? Additionally, by having concrete examples, I can identify the root cause of the issue and make a more strategic change to eliminate or overcome the obstacle.

Feedback is normally taken as a threat to humans because these are unexpected comments that we are not prepared to hear or receive. This step worked for me as I try my best to remove any bias and put myself in the shoes of the giver. Taking it objectively, it is easier to process the feedback while keeping in mind that not all feedback should be applied but must be noted. Handling feedback positively or constructively helps us become more matured and professional at work.

Surprising feedback can be difficult to handle simply due to its surprising and sometimes unwanted nature. I think the key moment is in not reacting instantly, but give yourself time to acknowledge what emotions or thoughts the feedback triggers in you. After having acknowledget that, the second step is pure curiousity, without a hidden agenda. Once you understand the feedback, try and stop the converstaion with a promise of giving the feedback further thought and that you will return to the sender once you have settled how to handle the feedback.

This is a common theme among peers who stress about receiving feedback. You need to be able to evaluate not only the feedback but the person giving it. Humans love to give feedback even though they may not be qualified too on a particular subject. When you receive surprising feedback make sure that are evaluating who is giving you the feedback. What are their motives? What are their qualifications? Look through it with a critical but honest lens and see identify what opportunities or key takeaways are there, if any.

Feedback, if shared correctly, is an opportunity to avoid being blindsided by our own assessment. It is a chance to see ourselves through other people’s eyes, whether they have full or limited visibility of us. What I found useful is to build a bridge with the person who shared the feedback because chances are that they can help you grow. It could be a simple coffee chat every now and again but it helps you to track your progress and opens up your mind to other people’s perspectives and that itself is an amazing value.

Taking time to pause is crucial in any unexpected situation. ● If you make practicing mindfulness exercises a habit, it will be simpler for you to take this pause when surprises occur. ● Through consistent mindfulness practice: - You build the muscle of observation. - You become more adept at monitoring your thoughts and emotions. - You gain the ability to let go of initial reactions and choose a more measured response. ● The next time you face a surprising development: - Take a few deep breaths before responding. - Focus on the present moment without judging. - Allow a pause before speaking or taking action.