Cassie Tolhurst

COMM 2110-002
Proposal Assignment
2/12/2015

Goal:
I want to be able to accept feedback and criticism from my boyfriend, parents, and
others close to me without getting defensive or upset with them.
Rationale:
When my loved ones give me feedback that I dont like, I usually get really
defensive and snap back at them. Even though they have the best intentions and
arent trying to hurt me, I usually still feel unfairly targeted and sometimes lash out
back at them and dismiss what they are saying. If I can learn to accept feedback
from them, it will improve our relationship, and help me improve my own self.
Strategies:
1) I will help cultivate my understanding of what is being said by my loved
one. I wont jump to conclusion and assign negative hurtful meanings to the
feedback I am given. (Beebe, 2013 , p. 122)
2) I will be aware of my personal emotional noise, and try to avoid selective
listening when receiving feedback. I will try to look at the whole picture and
understand the entire message, even though the content might be a
sensitive subject for me. (Beebe, 2013 , p. 127-128)
3) I will think before I reply with an active verbal response. I will do my best
not to (Beebe, 2013 , p. 295)
4) I will actively avoid internal polarization. If I receive criticism I wont take it
as an attack on my character and the either you are with me or against me
approach. (Beebe, 2013 , p. 168)
Implementation:
I will begin implementing my strategies starting right away. I will start to actively
seek advice and suggestions from my loved ones so I will have an opportunity
practice the strategies I have chosen. I will focus on my listening, my understanding
of the message, and my response. The motivation I have to complete my goal is
improved relationships with those close to me, and an improved self, due to the
feedback I receive.

Works Cited
Beebe, Beebe, & Redmond. (2013). Interpersonal Communication: Relating to
Others (7th Edition). Boston: Pearson HE, Inc.