Do you have people in your life who will provide honest feedback for you? People with whom you trust to speak honestly?
I often talk about providing specific feedback to colleagues – both positive and developmental to support their growth and I continue to stress the importance of this. For managers especially, praise your people. Show them how they are valued. Be specific in your praise, not just an offhanded “good job.” If needed, tell them how they can improve; again, with enough details that the input can actually help them make adjustments and improve.
What I’m talking about here though, is having a person (or people) who sincerely want what’s best for you. (Not that your manager doesn’t but there is still a hierarchy involved). I’m referring to a person that you can talk to, ask for feedback and they have no fear in speaking the truth. While sometimes the truth may sting a little, you know their perspective is priceless and given with the sole intent to benefit you. It is what you needed to hear. It is what you asked for and anything less than the truth would be a disservice to both of you and disingenuous. There is freedom in having this kind of relationship as neither party is afraid of what the reaction might be and there are certainly no repercussions – only respect.
The world is filled with untruths and I find people are hungry for honest feedback. Find people who will do this for you. This relationship is not always a friend but can be a mentor or business coach. Seek out someone to give you the kind of feedback you need and deserve. The benefit will be invaluable.