There are so many people who have an opinion about you, so who do you listen to? At some point you have to decide whether you want to protect your ego or actually grow. And that means removing the emotion from feedback long enough to hear what is really being said. It isn’t always nice. Sometimes it stings. Sometimes it feels unfair. But if you can stay open, listen respectfully and analyse it later, you gain two things: insight into yourself and the respect of the person brave enough to tell you the truth.

I haven’t always done this well. There were times I ignored feedback completely, or nodded politely while thinking I knew better. After being overlooked again and again for a role I desperately wanted, I realised something had to change. So I did the uncomfortable thing: I started listening. Really listening. I even approached a colleague who I knew didn’t like me and asked them how I was perceived.

It wasn’t fun. Some of it was hurtful. But I didn’t get defensive. I took a breath, compartmentalised the emotion, and asked myself, “What part of this can I use?” You will never please everyone, and you shouldn’t try. That is a fast track to burnout. But you can choose to grow.

These days I use my intuition as a guide. If something feels off with a person or a relationship, I go to them directly and ask for feedback. I start with what I’ve noticed and invite them to add their perspective. Intuition is powerful. Don’t ignore it.

There are so many opportunities for self‑awareness if you’re willing to take them. Ask people what you did well. Ask what you could have done better. Don’t run from these moments. Lean in.

Here are a few things I know about myself: – A control freak – Seen as someone who sucks up to superiors – A little bossy – Not perfect and never will be – Not great with things that require attention to detail

Some of these are fact. Some are perception. The trick is knowing the difference, so you can play to your strengths and manage the moments where your weaknesses might get in the way.

We all know people who lack self‑awareness. You’re probably thinking of three right now. You don’t want to be on someone else’s list.