Criticism can be hard to stomach. Whether it concerns one’s character, beliefs, actions or priorities, targeted feedback can feel like it hits us at the core of our identity.

However, over the years, I have come to value personal feedback – including criticism – more highly than almost any other kind of favour. It enables us to stress-test ideas, re-calibrate priorities and identify blind spots before they cause too much harm. It’s essential for developing a coherent life.

This involves:

1. Radical transparency: putting your ideas on the table for all to see.
2. Meaningful disagreement: mastering the art of collaborating with others to refine and stress-test ideas, in an ‘idea meritocracy’.

In that spirit – and if you have the time – I’d really appreciate any personal feedback you may be able to offer. Unless you tell me who you are, your comments will remain anonymous.

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When people keep bad thoughts held in their minds and they don’t put them on the table, it’s very inefficient, and it’s very unproductive.

Ray Dalio