We all like to hear compliments, but very few people can really take feedback to heart and learn and improve themselves. After so many years of trying to help people develop their careers, I have found that one of the most important things for career success is to be able to take feedback on board and have self-awareness.

Self-awareness is key to being able to take feedback on board. If you are not self-aware, you may not be able to see your own weaknesses or areas that need improvement. This can make it difficult to accept feedback, even if it is constructive.

There are a few telltale signs that you may not be self-aware. If you consistently get feedback that you disagree with, this could be a sign that you are not seeing things clearly. You may also feel frustrated or annoyed with your team or colleagues if you don’t agree with their direction or decisions. Additionally, if you feel drained at the end of the day and can’t pinpoint why, this could be a sign that you are not happy with your work or that you are not being challenged enough.

If you want to improve your self-awareness, there are a few things you can do. First, take some time to reflect on your work at the end of each day. Ask yourself what you did well, what you could improve on, and how you can improve tomorrow. Second, seek out feedback from your colleagues and managers. Be open to hearing what they have to say, even if it is not what you want to hear. Finally, find a mentor who can help you develop your self-awareness and provide you with honest feedback.

Once you have improved your self-awareness, you will be better able to take feedback on board. When you receive feedback, try to listen to it with an open mind. Don’t get defensive or try to argue with the person giving you the feedback. Instead, focus on understanding what they are saying and how you can use their feedback to improve.

If you find it difficult to take feedback on board, there are a few things you can do. First, try to identify your own biases. We all have biases, and they can sometimes prevent us from seeing things clearly. Once you are aware of your biases, you can start to challenge them. Second, practice active listening. When someone is giving you feedback, make sure you are really listening to what they are saying. Don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Finally, be willing to change. If you are open to feedback and willing to change, you will be more likely to succeed in your career.

Feedback is a gift. It is an opportunity to learn and grow. If you can learn to take feedback on board and use it to improve yourself, you will be well on your way to a successful career.