Unpopular Opinion: Not All Feedback is Valuable

As a small business owner, you pour your heart and soul into everything you create, striving to make an impact on your customers and community. Feedback, both positive and negative, can play a crucial role in shaping your business’s growth and success- in fact, I ask for it regularly! However, it’s so important to remember that not all feedback is created equal. Here are some factors you can keep in mind before taking feedback to heart or making changes to your offerings.

The Feedback Buffet

I imagine feedback like a buffet spread. You have an array of options, but not everything on the table is going to suit your tastes. It’s so important to be discerning about which feedback dishes you fill your plate with. Just because someone offers it doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for your unique creative business.

Finding Feedback that’s Justttt Right

Remember Goldilocks and the three bears? The same principle applies to feedback. Some may be too hot, filled with unhelpful criticism, while others may be too cold, lacking substance. Aim for the feedback that’s just right—a balanced blend of constructive insights and practical suggestions that resonate with your brand values.

Trust Your Creative Instincts

Guess what: you’re the creative genius behind your small business! While feedback can be valuable, don’t forget to trust your instincts and expertise. You have a unique vision, creative talent, and industry knowledge that sets you apart. Embrace your creative intuition and let it guide you when sifting through feedback.

Not Every Voice Needs a Megaphone

Sorry not sorry. In a world of endless opinions, it’s important to remember that not every voice needs a megaphone. Feedback from random sources may flood in, but it’s the quality, not the quantity, that truly matters. Seek out feedback from trusted sources, loyal customers (the people actually buying the thing!), or fellow creatives who understand your niche and share your vision. We love Aunt Sally, but she has zero experience with e-commerce.

The Art of Selective Listening

Selective listening isn’t always a bad thing, especially when it comes to feedback. It’s okay to apply an internal filter and focus on the feedback that aligns with your goals and resonates with your target audience. Embrace the power of choosing feedback selectively and filtering out the noise that doesn’t contribute to your creative journey. You can’t be for everyone, and that’s ok!

Embrace Your Unique Path

Remember, as a small business owner, you have the freedom to forge your own path. While feedback can provide valuable insights, don’t let it stifle your creativity or force you into a mold. Embrace the uniqueness of your creative journey, experiment, learn from your own experiences, and let your business grow organically.

Feedback is an invaluable tool for growth and improvement- but it doesn’t all hold equal weight! Embrace the criticism and ideas that align with your vision and values, and let everything else flow by.