Brendan reflects on the power of positive feedback:
I’ve started to use Strava to record my bike rides. The members of my local cycling club in Uttoxeter do the same. Strava has a very simple “Give kudos” button which is sort of similar to Facebook’s like button and allows you to give kudos to someone for their ride.
At first I felt a little uncomfortable with it as it felt slightly unnecessary. Now I both give and receive “kudos” with abandon. I like to see the kudos build up for a ride I’ve done and I’m sure others feel the same. As well as the kudos button, you can comment on a ride that someone has done.
Some of the people within the club are great at giving encouraging feedback. “Great ride”, or “well done” just gives that additional lift. As well as the general feedback the best feedback is when you can see someone has actually taken a look at what you’ve done on the ride. “Great average speed”, “excellent ride up star bank”, “well done for getting out in that weather”.
This specific feedback is both encouraging and motivational. For someone to have taken an interest in your ride and taken the time to give specific feedback is very positive. The people giving the feedback are highly unlikely to have been trained.
For some, giving specific positive feedback appears to be natural – but they still have to make the effort and I am always highly appreciative of this feedback.
Anyone who takes the time to give you feedback is to be welcomed. Specific, thoughtful, positive feedback is a real gift.
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