Embrace Feedback as Koha: How to Turn Critiques into Gifts

Understanding Feedback as a Gift

In our endeavour to minimise risk and maximise reward, our brains often interpret feedback in ways that can trigger defensive reactions such as fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. But what if we could shift our perspective and view feedback as a gift—a Koha? In this post, we’ll explore how reframing feedback as Koha can transform your response and foster personal growth and community strength.

What is Koha?

Koha is a cherished Māori tradition involving the exchange of gifts or contributions, which can be tangible, like goods or money, or intangible, like services or knowledge. This practice is rooted in reciprocity and respect, emphasising community bonds and mutual appreciation without the expectation of repayment.

Feedback as Koha: A Path to Growth

Imagine if every piece of feedback you received was viewed as Koha. Regardless of its presentation, feedback can be a powerful gift meant to aid your growth, reflection, and learning. Here’s how you can embrace feedback as Koha:

1. Open the Gift: Actively use the feedback to make immediate improvements.
2. Put It Away: Save the feedback for future reference when it might be more applicable.
3. Ponder the Use: Reflect on how and if you want to implement the feedback

Like any special gift, you have the autonomy to choose how and when to use it. Gratitude plays a crucial role in this process. Receiving feedback with grace and expressing thanks can significantly alter how it impacts you.

Encouraging Reciprocal Appreciation

When feedback is given and received as Koha, it not only enhances personal development but also strengthens professional and personal relationships. If you wish to reciprocate the gesture, you might consider sharing how you've utilised the feedback, thereby continuing the cycle of growth and appreciation.

Explore More with The Facilitation Garden

If you're looking for more inspiration on how to use feedback effectively or wish to delve deeper into the world of coaching, visit The Facilitation Garden. Here, you can access a wealth of resources and ideas to enhance your facilitation skills including how to invite feedback. Alternatively, engage in personalised leadership coaching to enhance your personal and professional growth at Cultivating Culture Coaching.

Your Thoughts on Feedback as Koha

We’ve discussed transforming feedback from a potential source of stress into a valuable gift. If this perspective on feedback resonates with you, or if you have other insights, please feel free to comment below. I look forward to hearing how you integrate this concept into your life and workplace.