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Hey Reader -

I know a guy who has a love/hate relationship with feedback. He always hates getting it, but after talking with his wife, he usually admits there's something there. Or as he laughed and confessed, "Ok—I do do that thing!"

Leveling up is no simple feat. But here's why it matters: When you learn from this year's mistakes, you're creating a foundation that will not only transform where you are today, but it may just set you up for the next 5-10 years.

In the November series, Pass the Masterclass, we'll discuss how soft skills can help you transform common mistakes into empowering wisdom.

Is Imposter Syndrome Stalking You?

My friend Mikala is warm and engaging, which is why I was surprised to hear that she dislikes presentations. An invitation to join a local Toastmasters group changed her mind. She still isn't the first person leaping at a speaking opportunity, but she's become calmer and more comfortable when she has the floor.

I'm not the only one who noticed the change. After a recent team All Hands Meeting, her Lead took Mikala aside. They complimented her and asked if she was a natural speaker.

Mikala related the Toastmasters story, encouraging the Lead to find a group. But the Lead leaned in and said in a hushed tone, "Oh, I could never do that. You see, I'm at too high a level. Other people can't know that I've come this far, but I still avoid presenting."

Elevate Your Professional Status with People Skills

Has feedback been a tender spot this year? Here’s another way to frame it: Feedback may initially be hard to hear, but you’re getting inside information. So, the trick is to address situations when they’re small and manageable.

If you’re ready to use feedback to your advantage, try this 3-question pop quiz.

1. “Am I seeing the situation clearly?” Are false beliefs at play, like thinking skilling is either too hard or takes too much time? Step 1 to start moving in the right direction is as easy as telling old stories, “Bye, Felicia!”
2. “Are today’s actions costing me tomorrow?” Have you ever known someone with this blind spot? Who doesn’t understand future trade-offs caused by a split-second decision? So, Step 2 is to take out your crystal ball to identify potential long-term consequences.
3. “What one action can I take to benefit myself?” In fairness, no one likes confronting awkward, uncomfortable topics. But the good news is that you don’t have to become a different person overnight. So, take a soft approach to Step 3—simply choose one concrete way to support yourself. Taking courageous action is a way to demonstrate agency.

Now, imagine yourself a year from now. But instead of a competency tripping you up—whether it’s public speaking, offering your perspective in a meeting, or volunteering for a stretch opportunity—you’re now at a place where that skill has become second nature. No more dancing around what was once hard to admit, no more delays. Start increasing your professional status by passing the masterclass on truth-telling.

All the best,

Michelle Mains

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