I debated sending a newsletter this week, but I also recognize life must go on post-election. I won’t dive deep into my political perspectives because that’s not what you signed up for (and you are inundated with political content everywhere else). I tend to lean on the spirit of the serenity prayer in moments like this. Whether religious or not, it can help you keep perspective and feel in control in a world increasingly out of your control.

If you want a distraction from election coverage, keep reading! This week, I dive into feedback and we learn more from Miguel’s incredible journey.

• Clear-Eyed Perspective & Action: How to process difficult feedback

• Clear-Eyed Journey: How Miguel transitioned from hospitality sales to software HR and earned three promotions in four years

Clear-Eyed Perspective

Can I give you some feedback?

One of my most career-altering moments came during a performance review. My manager told me that while I had a lot of potential, my organizational skills needed significant improvement. She was blunt, warning that without change, I wouldn't achieve my goals or even meet expectations in my current role.

It was painful. I hadn’t heard this feedback before. I was completely unaware that others saw me this way.

I think about this conversation often, even many years later.

How you respond to difficult feedback can directly influence how others perceive you.

Resistance to feedback can quickly alter perceptions of your performance and willingness to collaborate. Even a minor reaction can undermine your relationships and reputation as a top performer.

Properly handling feedback will brand you as someone with a growth mindset eager to improve.

Why is difficult feedback challenging?

The feedback I received shed light on what Johari’s Window calls my 'blind area'—aspects others see but I don’t. This type of feedback can be the toughest to accept as it directly challenges how we see ourselves.

For many, difficult feedback elicits a negative reaction. Our natural human instincts to perceive threats (cortisol) and respond to the threat (adrenaline) kick in. Did your heart not drop a bit when you read the title? Don’t lie.

How can you handle challenging feedback effectively?

1. Acknowledge and Express Gratitude: Even if you initially disagree, it’s crucial to acknowledge the feedback. Appreciate that someone has taken the time to help you identify a potential blind spot. This not only helps you grow but also gives you a moment to process and fully understand the feedback.

2. Stay Curious: Ask questions to clarify the feedback and its basis. This shows genuine interest and helps you understand the perspective behind the feedback.

3. Take Time to Process: Don’t rush to respond or formulate an action plan on the spot. Give yourself space to think about the feedback without feeling defensive.

4. Develop and Discuss Your Action Plan: After processing, decide how to address the feedback. Then, circle back to the person who offered it. Share your plan to show that you are proactive and committed to improvement.

Want some more help?

Dive into this Clear-Eyed Guide on processing feedback. Give it a go the next time you face tough feedback—and see the difference!

What if you don’t think the person who gave you feedback has your best interest in mind?

Maybe you’ll find this decision tree helpful.

Want to learn more?

• The Right Way To Process Feedback (Harvard Business Review)

• Feedback at Work: A Complete Guide (Cameron Conaway)

• Six Ways to Handle Difficult Feedback Like a Pro (Forbes)

Clear-Eyed Journey

Miguel Figueroa (Team Lead, People Operations @ HubSpot)

Miguel's journey from hospitality to HR embodies the power of a growth mindset.

Although he was in a role that was once his dream job, it no longer served his passion. The pandemic was a turning point. With the hospitality sector in turmoil, Miguel didn’t just adapt—he reinvented himself.

I remember meeting Miguel during an interview for an HR Coordinator role. I was blown away by his hunger and willingness to learn. I was grateful he took the leap to join my team at HubSpot. It was a big transition.

A common theme throughout Miguel’s career is embracing his fears and taking risks. Whether switching industries or learning new skills, he understands that failure is necessary to grow. This was also the case when learning how to adapt to constantly switching managers.

Leaning into his fears has helped Miguel’s career take off. He’s been promoted three times in four years from HR Coordinator to Team Lead. How does Miguel stay motivated to keep going?

What final advice does he have for readers of The Clear-Eyed View?

What steps are you taking to cultivate your growth mindset? Like Miguel, how can you turn challenges into stepping stones for success?

I’m looking for you!

Are you willing to share your “clear-eyed journey”? Interested in spending 30 minutes sharing more about your career story with me? Consider signing up here! In return, I’ll provide a free 30-minute career consultation/chat (or anything else I can help you with!).