Being Coachable

Getting and applying feedback can help athletes grow. Everyone has areas they can improve in, and feedback from coaches can help players know what these areas are and what to do to get better. Without honest, timely feedback, skills can plateau and mistakes can become habits.

Three Tips for How to Receive Feedback

1. Listen Actively, Not Defensively
   When someone offers feedback, focus fully on their words. Active listening shows respect and allows you to understand the message clearly, even if it’s tough to hear.

2. Ask Clarifying Questions
   If the feedback isn’t clear or you want to understand the reasoning behind it, don’t hesitate to ask for specifics. This demonstrates your commitment to improvement and ensures you get actionable advice.

3. Separate Yourself from the Feedback
   Remember, feedback is about your work or behaviour, not your worth as a person. Objectively assess what’s useful and make adjustments without taking it personally.