Follow these 5 steps to make the most of your feedback
Feedback is a gift. But fully appreciating it and making sense of what has been said can sometimes be challenging. These 5 steps will help you digest any feedback you receive and extract the information that will help you achieve your potential.
 

Step 1 - Choose the right time and place
Your feedback will demand your full attention. Don’t start reading it in the middle of a busy workday. Wait until you have some headspace, such as in the evening or on a weekend. Also make sure you find a quiet spot that is comfortable for you. 

Step 2 - Suspend judgement
When you first view your feedback, you may feel strong positive or negative emotions. Try to temper your feelings and do not act on the feedback immediately. Processing and making sense of feedback takes time. When you are past your initial reaction, your ideas might change.

Step 3 - Review your feedback carefully
As you are reading, keep an open mind and try to identify any reoccurring points or key themes.

Step 4 - Digest your feedback
Think about what your feedback means to you. Sleep on it. Talk to people about it. Write down your feelings and impressions.

To help you digest your feedback, here are some questions to ask yourself:

• What pleased you about the feedback you received?

• What surprised you about this feedback?

• Given the feedback you received and your own self-perception and goals, what are one or two development objectives that you would like to work on?

Step 5 - Show your appreciation
Make sure you thank your supporters for their feedback and let them know that you value their efforts. By doing so, you will come across as open, confident, humble and eager to develop.