These last two lines of Amanda Gorman's The Hill We Climb poem always give me all the feels. It's hopeful, inspiring, and powerful. It makes me simultaneously grateful for what we have and empowered to do more and be more.

Good leaders have the ability to call out what's going well, what's working- "brave enough to see it". While also improving and encouraging themselves and others to strive for more- "brave enough to be it". 

In leadership, being open to feedback is not just a skill; it’s a necessity. Feedback is a powerful tool that offers insights, provides new perspectives, and helps us grow. It’s the mirror that reflects not just what we want to see, but what we need to see. However, as crucial as it is to be receptive to feedback, it’s equally important to know how to balance this openness without compromising your core values or losing your unique leadership identity. Over the years I have received a lot of feedback and it's been really important to be able to discern what's worth listening to and what's not. 

The Power of Feedback Feedback offers leaders the opportunity to understand how your actions and decisions impact others. It provides clarity on blind spots and highlights areas for improvement. Embracing feedback can lead to better decision-making, more effective communication, and stronger relationships with your team. When leaders actively seek out and welcome feedback, wecreate a culture of trust and continuous improvement, where team members feel valued and heard.

Balancing Openness with Integrity However, being open to feedback doesn’t mean accepting every piece of advice or criticism that comes your way. Not all feedback is created equal, and not all of it will align with your values, vision, or the specific context of your leadership. The key is to discern which feedback is constructive and which might be misguided or not applicable.

To maintain this balance:

• Stay Grounded in Your Values: Your core values should act as your anchor. When you receive feedback, filter it through the lens of your principles and long-term goals. If the feedback challenges these foundational aspects, consider whether it’s a push towards growth or a distraction from your true path.

• Evaluate the Source: Consider who is providing the feedback and their intentions. Constructive feedback from a trusted colleague or mentor is invaluable, but criticism from someone who doesn’t understand the full picture may not be as beneficial.

• Reflect and Decide: Take time to reflect on the feedback before acting on it. Ask yourself: Does this feedback resonate with me? Will it help me become a better leader? What adjustments, if any, are necessary?

Leading with Confidence and Openness The best leaders are those who can listen, adapt, and evolve without losing themselves in the process. By being open to feedback while staying true to your core values, you can grow in your leadership role without compromising who you are. This balance ensures that you remain authentic and resilient, leading with both confidence and empathy.

In the end, being open to feedback is about being committed to your growth as a leader while also maintaining the integrity that defines your leadership style. It’s a delicate balance, but one that, when mastered, can elevate your impact and influence in powerful ways.

Oh I am excited for this! Melinda French Gates is celebrating her 60th birthday with a series on YouTube, Moments that Make Us, where she interviews incredible women. Reese, Michelle, Megan, Oprah and more! Can't wait to watch and be inspired by these women and their special stories.