How Are You Serving Feedback?

For the first time in eight months, I completely forgot to send the monthly support I’d committed to providing someone for a year. I only realized the transfer was pending when I received a text from the beneficiary.

"Hello Ma, I haven’t seen the money this month. Just a kind reminder, thank you."

I promptly made the transfer and followed up with a call to let her know it was done. However, I pointed out that I only received feedback from her when there seemed to be an issue. Receiving that message without any acknowledgement of the funds I've consistently sent over the past months was such a blow to my morale. I mean, really?

It got me thinking about how feedback works. We’re often quick to point out what’s missing or broken, but when things go right, we stay silent as if appreciation is optional.

The truth is, feedback should flow both ways—whether it’s constructive or positive.

As the year wraps up, let’s challenge ourselves to be more generous with our words of encouragement, especially toward those who make our lives easier—spouses, colleagues, nannies, drivers, drycleaners, security guards, bosses, staff, friends etc. Sure, no one’s perfect, and flaws can be hard to overlook, but a sincere compliment can be the fuel someone needs to keep going.

Ken Blanchard said it best: “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.”  So, let’s not serve just a plate of complaints!

Here’s to ending the year on a high note—one kind word at a time