The Art of Ruthless Self-Criticism and Empowering Feedback: Strategic Insights from My Own Journey ??????

In this week's Strategic Advisory Insights, I aim to contemplate a valuable lesson I've acquired through experience: striking a balance between being brutally honest with ourselves and motivating others through constructive feedback.

Self-improvement often demands ruthless self-criticism—a willingness to confront our flaws without sugar-coating. ?? But when it comes to guiding others, the approach must shift. Feedback should empower ??, not confuse or demoralise. I’ve learned this through my mistakes, including the habit of delivering strong feedback only to follow it up with phrases like, “Don’t take it seriously; it’s just on a lighter note.” ??

This dual focus on self-reflection and motivating feedback is essential for growth ?? and leadership ??, both individually and within teams.

Ruthless Self-Criticism: The Foundation of Personal Growth ????

1. Be Brutally Honest with Yourself ?? Self-awareness is a superpower. ? It requires acknowledging your flaws without excuses, recognising failures, and seeking improvement. Over time, I’ve learned that being too harsh on myself can hinder growth. Striking the right balance is key. ??
2. Lessons from My Own Self-Critique ??

Giving Feedback: Inspire, Don’t Undermine ???

1. A Common Mistake: Mixed Signals ? I’ve often seen people give strong feedback only to downplay it by saying:
2. How to Give Empowering Feedback ??

Balancing Both: Strategic Leadership Insights ????

1. Self-Criticism Enhances Credibility ?? When you openly acknowledge your mistakes and work to improve, it builds trust ?? and inspires others to follow suit. ??
2. Motivational Feedback Builds a Growth Culture ?? A growth-oriented mindset thrives on feedback that motivates ? and encourages action. As leaders and advisors, it’s our responsibility to nurture this culture within our teams and organisations. ????
3. Lessons for Strategic Advisors ???? Whether you’re reflecting on your performance or guiding others, remember:

Conclusion: A Call to Action ????

This week’s insight reminds us to practice self-awareness ?? and empathy ?? in equal measure. As advisors, mentors, and leaders, how we handle self-criticism and deliver feedback can shape not only our own growth but also the success of those we guide.

Take a moment this week to ask yourself:

• Am I being honest with myself about my areas for growth? ??
• Am I empowering others with my feedback or leaving them uncertain? ??

Let’s commit to refining these skills for our development and those we influence. ???

Closing Note

Feedback and self-reflection are the bases of strategic personal and professional growth. ??? If this resonates with you, share your thoughts or examples from your experiences in the comments! Let’s grow together. ????

#StrategicAdvisory ?? #SelfReflection ?? #GrowthMindset ?? #LeadershipInsights ?? #ConstructiveFeedback ?? #EmpathyMatters ?? #PersonalDevelopment ??