Feedback Thoughts

Feedback is tricky thing. It is something that we all love and hate. On the surface, everyone wants feedback. If I can be better somehow, I want someone to tell me! However, when it comes to actually receiving feedback, it's never as fun as it sounds. I think the problem with feedback is that is often feels like a personal attack.

To use the example of this class, when I leave a constructive comment on someone's story or project, I'm telling them how I think they could make their story better. I know that this has nothing to do with who they are as a person. We are a class, working together toward a common goal of making great stories and getting good grades. However, when I read a constructive comment on my own stories...it's hard not to take it personal. These stories (just like anything else in life that you receive feedback on) are something that you put a lot of thought and effort into. We are often proud of our work, so any suggestion can feel like an attack; that is just human nature.

I think the best way to make feedback easier to swallow is to remember to compliment what you like. You might have heard about the idea that you should "sandwich" feedback by putting compliments on either side.

Example: This story is really great! I like how you made Character A interact with Character B. But perhaps you could develop more on Character B's past. I think it would make the story flow better. I loved the character and would love to learn more about him!

Now, I've often heard this method critiqued because it seems like you are beating around the bush or not being straightforward with your feedback. However, I disagree. I think when we are trying to help each other, we need to make sure we tell them what we do like and what we don't like. Knowing what's good is just as important as knowing what needs work.

I think that as long as you are being honest, giving positive feedback can make the constructive criticism easier to take.

As for taking criticism, my favorite thing to remember is that you are more likely to succeed when you become comfortable with being uncomfortable. As one of the articles mentioned, feedback is uncomfortable! Sometimes, it is downright hard to take. But once you become more comfortable with this, you become better at taking criticism and learn how it will help you grow.

It's important to remember that the person giving you feedback just sees additional potential in you. At the end of the day, you want to be as successful as possible, and feedback is the way to get there!

(One of the most valuable lessons I have learned in college is the benefit of asking for feedback as much as possible! Moodle)