I had a chat with my family over the holiday about truthful feedback. I asked them to share with me any observations they have about me (positive, negative, or neutral). I let them know I wanted the truth and wanted to understand different perspectives to improve my decision-making. I value the feedback of those who’ve known me longest. I may not agree with it, but I still want to hear it. Ideally, I want to hear their raw thoughts, not a watered-down version that I have to interpret later.

The request was embraced, and I got some valuable info. One family member thanked me for giving them permission to provide feedback. They said they’ve had feedback for me in the past but didn’t feel it was their place to share without my asking for it. I always assumed those close to me know how I value candid feedback. I also assumed that knowing this meant they would readily share any feedback. Today that assumption was proven wrong.

As I’ve matured, I’ve become more intentional about seeking out people who will readily share candid feedback. What I missed is that people in my circle might have something to tell me but not be comfortable doing so absent an explicit request.

In 2023, I want to have the truthful-feedback conversation with more credible people in my circle. I suspect this will be a positive exercise that takes some relationships to the next level in the long term and unlocks some valuable observations in the short term and long term.