Feedback is a free lesson from someone who cared enough to give it. Don’t argue with the gift.

Giving someone honest notes takes effort and carries a small social risk, which is why most people say nothing and let you keep going wrong. Arguing in the moment teaches the person that the effort is not worth repeating, and the supply dries up. You do not have to agree with every note. You just have to receive it before you decide about it.

Make thank you your first response, then think it over later when nothing is at stake. Keep what is true, drop what is not, and go back to the person whose notes keep proving useful.