Filter Feedback Through Why

Shaan Puri shares his evolution in handling feedback, moving from being overly dependent on it to finding a balanced approach that focuses on extracting meaningful questions from feedback rather than treating it as direct solutions.

• Journey with Feedback:

  • Started as "Mr. Feedback" - actively seeking input from everyone
  • Shifted to "Steve Jobs mode" - rejecting all feedback
  • Finally found balance between these extremes

• Current Feedback Philosophy:

  • Feedback isn't the answer - it's the question
  • Only seek feedback from relevant sources
  • Use feedback to surface better questions to ask yourself
  • Trust yourself to make final decisions

• Practical Application:

  • Example: When people give contradicting feedback about podcast length:
    • Don't focus on "longer vs shorter"
    • Ask "What's the right length for our show?"
    • Consider "What makes podcasts great at different lengths?"
  • For Products:
    • Focus on understanding people's problems
    • Don't ask what solution they want
    • Use feedback to generate better questions

• Core Principles:

  • "Who are my customers? The people that love what I do"
  • Trust your instincts when feedback is unclear
  • Accept that you can't please everyone
  • Focus on attracting people who naturally align with your style

• Decision Framework:

  • If feedback generates clear questions and answers → make adjustments
  • If feedback is unclear → trust your instincts and continue your path
  • Look for the "why" behind feedback rather than the literal suggestion