I found this on a school report from when I was 12. It’s wonderfully honest.
I’d wager he was really thinking “The kid’s a bit shite, but as he’s large, we can use him as an obstacle in defence.”
But he was worried about my feelings, so he softened it up.
I wish this was more common. If kids had more honest reports, it could save a lot of heartache and false expectations, and set them on a better track.
But we’re no better at work. In fact, we’re *awful* at giving feedback. We usually don’t even bother. I’m stunned at how many leadership teams I come across that have never provided feedback for each other. What a wasted opportunity to support each other’s growth, and work more closely together.
It makes a difference. I still recall and am grateful for feedback I got from fellow board member Richard Poole when we were on the board of Conchango 15 years ago! Delivered confidently and kindly, it changed the way I’ve done things since.
We need to be brave and thoughtful with it, but we do need to give feedback to support each other.
Otherwise we’ll be leaving each other lurking backfield rather than empowering each other to contribute.
P.S. Teacher was right. Football wasn’t my thing. I switched to athletics. Next year, I was 1cm off breaking the high jump record. He did me a favour. That was more my thing.
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