As a BJJ student, you’ll continuously learn new skills and train to refine those skills. And accepting an instructor or coach’s comments is a necessary part of this learning process.
Accepting feedback isn’t always easy. Especially if you’re mistaking helpful instruction for criticism. It turns out that there is a difference between feedback and criticism.
Criticism passes judgment and focuses on finding faults.
Criticism is judgmental and fault focused. It involves a harsh delivery that is more harmful than helpful and results in shame or embarrassment. Criticism tends to be more about the recipient instead of the recipient’s actions.
Feedback is constructive and remedial.
Unlike criticism, feedback has an evaluative component. Instead of passing judgment on a person, feedback is all about providing suggestions on how to improve.
Feedback is what will make you better at BJJ. And accepting feedback is a sign that you’re a coachable athlete. Here are a few more features of helpful feedback separating it from harsh criticism:
1. Respectful
Mutual respect is an essential element in martial arts, as well as in the athlete-coach relationship. A coach or instructor who respectfully delivers feedback is more likely to motivate an athlete to act on it. At the same time, an athlete who respects their coach will listen and be more receptive to feedback.
2. Positive
Positive and productive feedback is more likely to encourage an athlete to listen. Not all feedback has to be corrective. There is also a need to provide athletes with positive feedback on what they are doing right.
3. Focus on Future Improvement
Where criticism may focus on a student’s past mistakes or imperfections, feedback focuses on making improvements in the future. Feedback can help you figure out what to focus on in your future training.
If you’re interested in getting started with Jiu-Jitsu, check out Tracks BJJ in Coon Rapids. Contact us today to learn more about the programs we have to offer and how to get started.
