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September 17, 2025 • 23 mins

309. The Art and Magic of Feedback: Navigating Critique as a Creative

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan discusses the significance of feedback in the creative process. He emphasizes the importance of seeking constructive critique while also learning to trust one's own instincts and taste. The conversation explores the balance between receiving feedback and maintaining personal vision, as well as the distinction between the creation and revision phases of artistic work.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Invite Feedback Intentionally – Mike shares why it’s crucial to be selective about who you ask for feedback. Not all opinions are created equal—seek input from those with the right expertise and context for your work.

🎨 Discern Constructive Critique – Learn to sift through feedback like you would sand at the beach, keeping only the valuable bits that help you improve and letting the rest wash away. Constructive feedback should be actionable, not rooted in personal bias.

🎨 Trust Yourself as the Creator – Ultimately, you are the one who makes the final call on your creative work. Practice self-validation and separate your need for external approval from your drive to make the best art possible.

Links and Resources:


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Your feedback helps us bring even more insight and encouragement to creators like you. Ready to level up your creative journey? Visit mikebrennan.me to explore the Daily Creative Habit Journal and other resources designed to fuel your artistic growth.

Keep creating, and don’t forget, you hold the final brushstroke!

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