We live in the era of instant feedback.
Got a question? Call your mom. Email a friend. Tweet it.
No matter how you seek out advice, you’re bound to find it.
While this is a blessing, it can also be a curse.
Why?
Because not all feedback is good feedback.
Not everyone’s life experience or perspective is going to correctly pertain to your needs.
This past weekend, I was lucky enough to attend my second Summit Series event - Summit Basecamp. One of the most impactful sessions I attended was lead by relationship expert Keith Ferrazzi. He offered many pearls of wisdom, but one in particular stuck out above the rest:
“We believe we always have to take feedback and do something about it. Act on it. We need to learn we can also just say thank you and move on.”
It’s a simple reminder, but one I believe we all need – especially when it comes to our life’s work.
Yes, I know your parents believe that traveling the country playing music isn’t a “responsible adult” decision and that you’d be throwing your life and education away by not taking that job at a financial institution. I’m sure they’ve told you that a hundred times. But Dotan Negrin from Piano Across America would tell you something completely different were you to ask him instead.
At the end of the day, you are the only person in control of your life’s story.
While we strongly advocate finding mentors and a solid support system, we believe it’s even more crucial to focus on growing and nurturing your biggest cheerleader – yourself. Only you can take the risks and make the mistakes that will define your own personal adventure.
Listen to your inner voice. Figure out how to define your values and what’s important to you. Doing so will make it easier to filter out the advice and opinions of others that will lead you astray, instead of empowering you to live your best life. It will allow you to really live the life you want to live.
Then again, that’s just my advice. Feel free to take it or leave it.
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