Feedback.

The definition of feedback is, the retunr o information that is provided following an activity or process. We are receiving feedback at every moment we are awake. If you reach to pick up a cup, how do you know that your hand is close enough to close it on the cup? Now reach out to pick up while keeping you eyes closed. What happens? In order to pick up the cup, you used your senses to provide information about the progress of the task, and to modify what you were doing in order to complete the task successfully.

One source of feedback that we all use, when available, is other people. We notice how other people react to what we are doing. Their reaction might be positive, negative, planned or spontaneous. Whatever their response, or lack of it, we will draw conclusions about what that response means. We are then likely to modify our behaviour based on those conclusions, especially if we consider the other person credible. Feedback drives us to change.

We all know about criticism and the damage it can do to us, to our confidence and self esteem. But what is criticism and how is it different to feedback? The simplest way to tell the difference is to consider who the comments will benefit. Are they for the benefit of the giver or the receiver?

Feedback is for the benefit of the receiver. Its purpose is to help them grow and develop, and reinforce positive behaviour or actions. It is designed to help and support, and focuses on how to learn from the situation in order to move forward.