Proverbs 21.11
“When a scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise; when a wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge.”
Scoffers do not respond to instruction and correction. Indeed, scoffers are hard-hearted fools who resist and reject feedback. The are so hard-hearted that even a hundred blows can’t break through and get them to listen and change. “A rebuke goes deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred blows into a fool.” (Proverbs 17.10)
However, while discipline does no good for the scoffer, it sometimes helps a third party who sees/hears the discipline and responds. While the scoffers in a group might reject teaching and correction, often there are other people in the group who hear and act on the message.
Wise people are different altogether; they are lifelong learners. They are hungry for instruction, correction, and coaching. Wise people listen to feedback. When confronted with a rebuke, they listen and reflect. They understand and embrace the value of feedback.
There are limits to how much you can evaluate your own performance and progress. Therefore, the willingness to receive feedback and coaching is a necessary part of your journey. Be willing to be challenged. Be willing to be instructed and corrected.
The more coachable you are, the faster you will grow and get better in life and at work.
- Actively seek feedback about your strengths and weaknesses, as well as ideas for improvement.
- Be humble enough to receive feedback (even when it hurts). You can get better or you can protect your ego. You can’t do both.
- Don’t be defensive. Understand that all coaching comes from imperfect people.
- Be grateful that someone cares enough to invest the time and energy to help you grow and get better.
Your openness to feedback and your willingness to receive coaching is one of the most important attributes you can build into your life.
