87. FEEDBACK - Jack’s Japa Empowerment - Diaspora Handbook - Nijaa Diaspora Empowerment - Nijaa Immigrant Handbook - Jack Lookman

87. FEEDBACK

Feedback is one of the most underestimated instruments for progress, but many people avoid it.  In Nigeria, feedback is frequently interpreted as criticism, something to defend or dismiss.  In the United Kingdom, feedback is an essential component of professional and personal development.  Whether it's from an employer, colleague, or mentor, the goal isn't merely to point out flaws; it's to help you develop.  If you approach feedback with the appropriate perspective, it may be a strong accelerator for your progress.

In the workplace, feedback is common practice.  The culture includes performance assessments, informal check-ins, and peer evaluations. If your manager points out an area where you need to improve, take it as an opportunity rather than an insult. Instead of getting defensive, ask questions, take notes, and show that you’re willing to work on the issue. This attitude builds trust and opens doors to more responsibility and advancement.

Feedback is equally valuable in both social and intimate settings.  Living in a new nation necessitates adjusting to unfamiliar traditions and expectations.  Friends, mentors, or even strangers may point out things you may do differently to fit in or communicate more effectively.  If you reject this advice outright, you will miss an opportunity to integrate more effectively.  Of course, not all input is actionable. Some may be based on bias or misunderstanding, but you should be willing to consider it before discarding it.

It's important to remember that feedback works both ways.  You should not only accept it politely, but also provide it carefully.  When giving feedback to others, whether in a professional or personal situation, be specific, helpful, and courteous. This builds your reputation as someone who adds value rather than just criticises.

In the UK, those who embrace feedback tend to advance faster because they continuously refine their skills, relationships, thoughts, and approach. It’s a free resource for improvement that many overlook. Don’t be one of them. Seek it out, act on it, and watch how quickly it transforms your journey abroad.