- February 11, 2025
- Student Blog
Feedback—a word that often stirs mixed emotions. For some, it’s a tool for growth; for others, it’s a harsh mirror. But for me, feedback has been the ultimate game-changer. It’s not just the advice I’ve received but the actions I’ve taken on that advice that have truly redefined my journey. Growth isn’t about nodding in agreement to critiques—it’s about transforming those words into results. And that transformation begins when you decide to walk the talk.
The Power of Feedback: My Turning Point
Feedback is like a compass, showing you where you are and where you could go. In my own journey, I’ve realized that feedback is not just about correction—it’s about connection. It connects you to your potential, to the people who see your promise, and to the goals you’re yet to achieve.
Every milestone I’ve reached has been built on a foundation of honest feedback. For instance, when a mentor pointed out that my presentations lacked clarity, I didn’t just take it to heart; I took it to work. I practiced, refined, and restructured my approach until I could deliver with confidence and impact. That single critique led me to create presentations that resonated, engaged, and inspired.
Why Walking the Talk Matters
Listening to feedback is one thing; acting on it is another. Talking about improvement without action is like reading a map but never taking the journey. Walking the talk isn’t just a phrase—it’s the bridge between intention and achievement.
Here’s why walking the talk is transformative:
- It Builds Credibility: People trust actions, not promises. When you act on feedback, you show that you value others’ input and are committed to growth.
- It Creates Momentum: Acting on feedback creates a ripple effect. Each step forward fuels the next, and before you know it, you’re miles ahead of where you started.
- It Inspires Others: When others see you implement feedback and evolve, it motivates them to do the same. Growth becomes contagious.
- It Reinforces Self-Belief: Each improvement solidifies your confidence and reminds you of your ability to adapt and thrive.
Feedback: A Two-Way Street
For feedback to be truly effective, it must be timely, specific, constructive, and consistent. Generic praise like “You did great” is encouraging, but actionable insights such as “Your storytelling kept the audience hooked” drive meaningful improvement. Feedback should highlight opportunities for growth rather than merely pointing out mistakes; for instance, saying “Try using visuals to simplify complex ideas” is far more valuable than “Your slides are confusing.” Effective feedback is a dialogue, fostering clarity and mutual understanding, not a one-sided critique. Regular feedback ensures continuous growth, making it a habit rather than a one-off event. However, feedback is only transformative when acted upon, which requires a clear and structured approach. My process begins with reflection to fully understand the feedback and align it with my goals. Then, I create a plan, setting actionable milestones. Next, I execute the plan, as action is the key to change. This iterative process ensures that feedback is not just received but actively transformed into growth and success.
Feedback in Action
At Universal AI University, feedback isn’t just encouraged—it’s ingrained. Initiatives like the SAVI program have taught me to embrace feedback as an opportunity, not a setback. Peer reviews, faculty mentorship, and collaborative projects have given me firsthand experience in turning feedback into tangible outcomes. Here, walking the talk isn’t an option—it’s a way of life.
From Feedback to Fearless
Feedback is the SPARK, and walking the talk is the FIRE. Together, they light the path to success. My growth isn’t just about the feedback I’ve received—it’s about the actions I’ve taken to honor it. It’s about turning words into results, critiques into victories, and potential into performance.
It’s Not The Feedback That Changes You—It’s What You Do With It That Counts.
Harshita Soni
Jaipur Rajasthan
MBA 1st Year Student
Universal ai university
