I just finished the book Making Ideas Happen by Scott Belsky. I would highly recommend it to any creative or entreprenuer out there.

One of the thoughts that stuck out to me though we a brief section on Appreciation Feedback. Sounds a bit too “nice” for my taste to be honest but it makes a lot of sense. Here is an excerpt from the book:

People need to relax to be able to discover. Our unconscious won’t come forward and help us see things when we are too logical and focused on criticism. Sometimes some one will say, “I just want to know how to improve, not what is good.” People think that pointing out faults is the only way to improve. Appreciations are not about being polite. They are about point out what is alive. The recipient must take it in and incorporate it.

In another example earlier in the chapter the process of appreciation feedback is implemented by bringing in designers for first round reviews and instead of criticism. Everyone in the room says 3 things they love about the piece. The designer is then sent off to work in a revision before a formal critique is held. Almost always the revised product is much improved before an actual critism. This helps reduce the “negative moementum” we all face whenever we step out to execute and idea. It helps us focus on forward  progress not arm chair quarterback tactics.

I’m thinking about implementing this myself. Has anyone else experienced a feedback system like this? If so comment or tweet with your experience please.