Feedback
Bubble
The Safety of the Known
The Comfort Zone
Safe but Small
Staying within a trusted circle protects the ego, but it also reinforces existing biases and prevents the “catapult” growth found in new perspectives.
Status: Maintenance.
Intentional Step-Out
The Growth Edge
By stretching out to new projects, reaching in for mentorship, or extending the circle to new voices, we dismantle the bubble walls.
Status: Evolution.
The Illusion of Growth
Even the most feedback-literate professionals are part of a feedback bubble or two. These bubbles are natural, often formed within small project teams or hierarchical groups. However, while a bubble may have once positively shaped your life, it can eventually become a barrier. As Dr. Phil Stutz noted, the comfort zone is designed to keep you safe, but what it really does is keep your life small.
Strategies for Expansion
Stepping outside of your feedback bubble requires intentionality. Leaders often pursue this through four key actions:
- Stretch Out: Taking on external tasks, like public speaking or professional volunteering, that force new feedback scenarios.
- Reach In: Leveraging internal mentorship and shadowing programs to gain cross-departmental perspectives.
- Extend It: Welcoming new, diverse voices into your established circle to break up stagnant thinking.
- Reflect On: Using observational feedback to model your potential future state based on those who embody it.
Observational Reflection
Going beyond the bubble isn’t always about a direct conversation; it can be an internal process. By choosing an area for improvement and observing someone who models that future state, you create a “silent” feedback loop. This reflection allows you to practice new qualities without the immediate pressure of the bubble’s expectations.
Learn more about building Feedback Literacy.