Ask For Feedback...Now

  

 

Do it immediately.

Just ask.

Ask your coach, mentor, boss, boyfriend/girlfriend, mom, or best friend what you need to improve on. We're not perfect; almost everyone acknowledges it. To continually improve, learn and grow we need to know what to work on. If your not consciously focusing your efforts on becoming a better "X" everyday, your falling behind.

It really shouldn't be hard to go up and say, "Coach, what are three things I need to work on right now to become a better player and contributor to the team?". Why? Because you know he/she is going to have some form of constructive criticism; it's guaranteed that you'll be weak in at least one area. So just know keep in mind whether you, the captain or all american is asking for feedback, all three will get something to work on.

It's frustrating to see talented individuals doing good work in their field or job but never be able to cast aside their fear of acknowledging imperfection to ask, "What can I be doing better?" so that they can become great. Have a strong desire to know why you weren't awarded that industry award or why were you weren't selected as an All-star.

Not only will this technique help you focus on your improving weaknesses or strengthening your strengths, it will also keep you grounded. Having 2-3 things that you need to work on lingering in the back of your head will instill some humility, something that the vast majority of people in today's world need.

If Tiger can re-tool his swing and Kobe can make changes to his jump shot in the 13th year of his career  - so can you.  

Posted on Friday, Jun 4, 2010