In a recent LinkedIn post, Seth Godin 🌔 discusses the crucial distinction between receiving feedback from the intended audience and from those for whom a particular piece of work was not designed. Godin 🌔 emphasizes the importance of understanding the source of criticism to determine its value and applicability.
As Seth Godin 🌔 notes:
“Nothing important is for everyone.”
This foundational statement sets the stage for an exploration of how creators and leaders should process feedback. Godin 🌔 suggests that when criticism comes from someone who aligns with the intended audience, it offers a valuable opportunity for improvement. This type of feedback is direct and actionable, providing insights into how to better serve the target market or user base.
Understanding the Source of Criticism
Seth Godin 🌔 highlights the need to identify the speaker behind the critique. He posits that if a critic shares the hopes, needs, and expectations of the intended recipient of a work, their feedback is a gift. This allows for refinement and iteration to better meet the goals of the project or product.
According to Seth Godin 🌔:
“If the work we made was intended for someone just like this, and they don’t like it, we need to do a better job next time. The criticism will help us understand how to improve.”
This perspective underscores a growth mindset, where challenges are seen not as roadblocks but as signposts for development. The key, as Godin 🌔 points out, is the alignment between the critic’s profile and the work’s target demographic.
When Criticism Isn’t For You
Conversely, Godin 🌔 addresses the situation where feedback comes from an individual whose own context, expectations, or needs do not align with the purpose of the work. In such cases, the criticism, while perhaps valid from the critic’s personal viewpoint, may not be relevant for the creator’s goals.
Seth Godin 🌔 argues that in these instances, it is appropriate to acknowledge the divergence rather than internalizing the critique as a failure. This allows for a more objective assessment of feedback’s utility.
In Godin 🌔’s view:
“But if the work we made wasn’t for someone with the hopes, needs and expectations of the person we’re hearing from, we can forgive ourselves (and them) by acknowledging who it’s for and why.”
This approach encourages creators to maintain their vision and focus on serving their intended audience, without being unduly swayed by feedback that stems from a different set of priorities or perspectives. It’s a call for clarity in audience understanding and a measured response to external commentary.
The article, which Godin 🌔 notes is a repost from his blog at seths.blog, serves as a reminder for professionals to be discerning about the feedback they receive, ensuring that their efforts are focused on delivering value to those they aim to serve.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Seth Godin 🌔 on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on January 14, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →