Do You Really Welcome Feedback?

Do You Really Welcome Feedback?

So many of us say we welcome feedback, but when it actually shows up and it’s not sugar-coated or wrapped in praise, or when it challenges us, we tense up, shut down, or even push back. I've seen this from watching others and from my own lived experiences.  How have you been shaped by both hard truths and loving corrections?

In the latest KimUnity Soulutions podcast episode, I opened up about a conversation that reminded me just how layered feedback really is. It started with a simple suggestion I received over lunch...a suggestion that I wasn’t expecting, but one that I valued. That moment stayed with me.

It inspired the question I now ask you:
Do you really welcome feedback or just approval?

💬 What Welcoming Feedback Really Looks Like

Welcoming feedback doesn’t mean nodding along or pretending you agree with everything. It’s not about being passive. It’s about being present, being curious, and choosing growth over comfort.

It may sound like, "That's interesting; I can see that" or "I never thought of that...tell me more".  By asking clarifying questions and reflecting on what's being asked, we are welcoming their insight even if change is not made.  It opens the door for collaboration, deeper conversation, and reflection.

❌ When Feedback Isn’t Really Welcomed

We’ve all been in conversations where any critique is seen as an attack, any suggestion feels like an insult, and “feedback” is only tolerated if it’s flattering.  

And here’s the thing: it’s not always about ego. Sometimes it’s about timing, tone, and trauma. Sometimes it’s not even the feedback that hurts, it’s the wound it hits. That’s why self-awareness, empathy, and discernment are essential on both sides.

Here’s what I’ve learned:
✔️ Feedback is not a mirror, it’s a bridge.
✔️ You don’t always know what you don’t know until someone lovingly points it out.
✔️ You don’t have to agree with everything, but you should be willing to consider it.

I shared in the episode that some of us were never raised to receive correction. For many, especially those who grew up without emotionally safe authority figures, even kind feedback can feel threatening. That’s real. And it’s why we must meet each other with grace.

So, ask yourself if you welcome feedback or just validation. Can people offer you truth without fear of triggering offense?

Let this be a moment of reflection and alignment.

Let’s grow through what we hear, not just what we like.

If this resonated, I’d love to hear from you:
💬 What’s your relationship with feedback?
💬 Has feedback ever helped shift your direction?

Drop your thoughts below. Let’s keep the conversation real, soulful, and rooted in community.

And if you haven’t already, be sure to:
✔️ Subscribe to the KimUnity Soulutions podcast
✔️ Follow us on your favorite platform
✔️ Share this with someone who's committed to growth

We’re building something beautiful — one real conversation at a time.

With love and light,
Kim the S.M.E. — Speaker of My Experiences

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