Understanding Feedback vs. Criticism

The way that feedback and criticism are delivered can have a significant impact on how we receive and process it. If it is delivered in a way that is respectful and supportive, we are more likely to be open to it and to see it as helpful. On the other hand, if it is delivered in a way that is dismissive or negative, we are more likely to tune it out or to see it as a personal attack.

What is feedback? Feedback refers to the comments or opinions offered by others with the aim of helping us to improve. It can therefore be seen as a way of giving back to us that strengthens and develops us.

What is the Difference Between Negative and Positive Feedback? Feedback, by definition, is meant to strengthen us and help us grow. Negative feedback is simply a criticism.

What is Criticism? Criticism isn’t honesty but a sign of a person’s own inner trouble and ego. Feedback should be life-giving. You should feel more inspired, encouraged, educated, hopeful, and excited to try what is being recommended to you.

Coaching Tip

As a great coach, it is important to tell your students what IS working, even if it isn't perfect yet. This allows them to stay in the learning zone and improve much more than if you only focus on the problem. However, it can be more difficult to provide this feedback to students who need more correction. You must work harder to give them feedback that will energize their growth rather than just tell them how to improve.

Player Tips:

Criticism can be personal and attack-like, but feedback does not have to be. If you feel that someone is constantly criticizing you in a discouraging way, have a plan to address the issue. If you have a critical parent, coach, or teacher, try to respond with your own power and dignity. Violence does not become less violent just because you receive it passively.

Eliminating oneself as part of the problem is a good way to start. We all have the ability to be part of the problem in some way. An easy way to test this is to ask yourself if most teachers and coaches would define you as flexible and receptive to feedback. If you tend to block feedback on the court, it's likely that you do the same in other areas of your life. Another good indicator would be whether you see feedback as a way to help you improve, or if you view it as a personal attack.

Criticism is often expressed using absolutes, labels, and personal statements. This can make it difficult to receive and integrate feedback. It can sound like "You always...,"you're too slow"..., or "you are the worst team I have ever coached".