Monday Madness

Tavia Robinson
Jul 28
2 min read

Monday Madness – Leadership Reflections with Coach Tavia

Topic: How Open Are You to Feedback—Truly?

“Examine what is said and not who speaks.”– African Proverb

Take a deep breath... Now another... Inhale clarity... Exhale resistance... Let your mind settle into the present moment.

Read that quote again slowly.

How often do we truly listen for meaning—without attaching it to the messenger, their tone, or our assumptions about their intent?

In leadership, in life, in coaching... the ability to receive feedback neutrally and constructively is a core muscle of growth. And yet, even the most seasoned executives and top performers can struggle with it.

As I reflected on this quote, more and more variables surfaced:

Who delivered the message?
What’s their agenda?
Was it in a professional setting or personal moment?
Was it raw and reactive—or measured and mindful?
Did it trigger ego, self-doubt, or curiosity?

Now pause. Ask yourself: How much does the source of feedback influence my willingness to receive it?

“Hasn’t your success and happiness grown hand in hand with your ability to receive feedback?”– Gay Hendricks

Coaching Insight:

In the world of executive coaching and leadership development, feedback is more than input—it's a mirror, a catalyst, a tool for alignment with your values, goals, and evolving identity.

Whether we’re talking about 360° feedback, stakeholder-centered coaching, or in-the-moment peer input—feedback is not about who’s right. It’s about what’s useful.

What would shift for you or your team if you viewed feedback as an invitation—not a critique?

Reframing Feedback:

Feedback (n.): Information offered for the purpose of improvement, performance enhancement, and intentional growth.

It builds psychological safety when done well.
It strengthens emotional intelligence—especially self-awareness and self-regulation.
It transforms leadership from reactive to responsive.

The truth? Every moment is a chance to recalibrate. Your point of power is always in the present.

Today’s Coaching Challenge: Personal Commitment to Feedback

Morning Affirmation: “I commit to receiving feedback with curiosity and courage.”
Stretch Affirmation: “I seek out meaningful feedback as a path to growth, alignment, and impact.”
Team Reflection Prompt:
- What’s one piece of feedback that helped you grow—even if it stung at first?
- Where might your team be holding back honest feedback—and why?
Leadership Journaling Cue:
- How do I model feedback receptivity in my organization?
- What signal am I sending about what’s “safe” to say to me?