The Difference Between Feedback and Permission, According to Izamontalvo

In a recent LinkedIn post, Izamontalvo explores the crucial distinction between seeking feedback and asking for permission, arguing that the latter can be a significant barrier to progress. Izamontalvo shares a personal anecdote about delaying a proposal, which ultimately led to a successful client acquisition once sent without external approval.

Unpacking the Fear Behind Seeking Permission

Izamontalvo highlights how the impulse to ask for permission can stem from a desire for others to share the burden of risk. The author recounts a situation where a proposal was held back for 11 days due to advice from several individuals, including a mentor, business partner, and friend. Despite the hesitations, Izamontalvo ultimately decided to send the proposal, which resulted in securing the client.

This experience led Izamontalvo to a key realization:

“I wasn’t asking for input. I was asking someone to carry the risk for me.”

This insight forms the core of the post, challenging the reader to examine their own motivations when seeking external validation.

Feedback vs. Permission: A Fundamental Distinction

The post emphasizes that while feedback is valuable for improvement, permission is often rooted in fear. Izamontalvo frames this as:

“Feedback makes you better. Permission is fear asking for company.”

According to Izamontalvo, recognizing this difference is transformative. It allows individuals to move beyond waiting for external validation and instead cultivate self-trust. As Izamontalvo puts it:

“Once you see the difference, you can’t unsee it. You stop waiting for others to say you’re ready.”

Cultivating Self-Trust and Action

Izamontalvo’s message encourages a shift towards internal validation and proactive decision-making. The author suggests that embracing one’s own judgment is key to overcoming inertia. The post concludes with a call to action, prompting readers to consider decisions they might be delaying due to a need for approval and to share if the message resonates.

The core argument presented by Izamontalvo is that true growth comes from trusting one’s own voice and taking action, rather than seeking reassurance from others. This perspective offers a powerful reminder for professionals navigating their career paths and making critical business decisions.