Guilty! I'm a feedback junkie now.
Let’s talk about how constructive feedback helps you grow not just as a designer but also as a key player in your team's success.
Hi there friend,
I want to come today with a subject that has been on my mind a lot since working in a big team of 10 designers: feedback! Yes, that’s right, we’re talking about the elephant in the meeting rooms. 👀
In the early days of my design career, I'll admit, I was a bit sensitive to feedback.
Okay, maybe more than a bit. I'd eagerly present my latest masterpiece, hoping for a chorus of praise, only to be met with suggestions for improvement. It stung. It really did. And yeah, it sometimes put a damper on my mood. How could it not? But here's the thing: I soon realized that taking things personally wasn't doing me any favors.
So, I made a conscious decision to embrace feedback.
I shifted my mindset from seeking validation to seeking growth.
And you know what? It was a game-changer. Suddenly, every critique, every suggestion, became an opportunity to learn and evolve as a designer.
As time went by and I discussed with more designers, managers, or even clients, I kinda got addicted to getting feedback (when needed, not for every little small task) because I could see my improvements, and that felt awesome.
Fast forward to today, and I'm a feedback junkie. Yep, you heard that right. I crave it like a good cup of coffee on a Monday morning. But let's be clear: I'm not talking about fishing for compliments here. Nah. I'm talking about honest, constructive feedback that pushes me to raise the bar, to stretch my creative muscles a little further.
And guess what? It's not just about me. It's about the entire team I’m part of. We've cultivated a culture where feedback flows freely, where every opinion is valued and every voice is heard.
Because here's the thing: when we give each other constructive feedback, we're not tearing each other down. We're lifting each other up.
So, my friend, if you're feeling a bit wary of feedback, I get it. I've been there. But trust me when I say this: lean into it. Embrace it. Because in the end, it's not just about growing a thicker skin. It's about growing as a designer, as a team, and as a community. And hey, who knows? You might just find yourself addicted to it too.
So today, I'm sharing with you my top 3 phrases you can ask someone for feedback on your work:
I will always appreciate an honest feedback.
You can tell me your opinion; it helps me see things from a different perspective.
What do you think are one thing I did well and one thing I can improve?
And a bonus one: “So, what do you REALLY think about this?” - but insert an emoji with this one. 😁
Now, I know what you're probably thinking: "But isn't feedback, like, super nerve-wracking?" Oh, believe me, I've been there. The butterflies fluttering in your stomach as you wait for someone to dissect your latest work - it's like waiting for exam results all over again.
But here's the thing: feedback isn't some scary monster lurking in the shadows. It's more like your trusty sidekick, guiding you through the wilds of design territory.
Think about it this way: when someone gives you feedback, they're not saying your work sucks. Nope. They're saying, "Hey, I see what you're going for here, and I think we can make it even better." It's a collaboration, a conversation, a chance to brainstorm and bounce ideas off each other.
And let me tell you, some of the best design breakthroughs happen when you've got a team of brilliant minds throwing ideas around like confetti. 🎉
So, how do you go about asking for feedback without feeling like you're putting yourself on the chopping block? Easy. Keep it casual. Keep it friendly. And most importantly, keep it genuine.
Remember those top three phrases I shared earlier? Yeah, those are your secret weapons. Whip 'em out whenever you're feeling stuck or uncertain about a project. Trust me, your teammates will appreciate your openness and willingness to grow.
And hey, if you're on the receiving end of feedback (which, let's face it, we all are at some point), don't take it as a personal attack. Take it as a golden opportunity to level up your game. Because here's the thing: none of us have all the answers. We're all just winging it, trying to create something beautiful in a world that sometimes feels like chaos.
So, embrace the feedback. Embrace the journey. And most importantly, embrace the fact that you're part of something bigger than yourself - a team of passionate, creative souls who are all in this crazy growth adventure together.
Now, my friend, go and create something amazing. And don't forget to ask for feedback along the way. You won't regret it.
PS: Leaving you with a confetti 🎉 song: