Originally posted on September 3, 2021 @ 7:01 am

In the quest for self-discovery and personal growth, seeking feedback from trusted peers plays a vital role. Peer review for self-discovery offers a valuable opportunity to gain insights, evaluate strengths and weaknesses, and propel personal development. This article explores the importance of peer review for self-discovery. It delves into the process, benefits, and challenges of peer review.

What is Peer Review?

Peer review involves seeking constructive feedback from trusted peers who can provide diverse perspectives and insights. By creating a supportive and safe environment for feedback, individuals can receive valuable input to better understand themselves. Peer review allows for evaluating strengths and weaknesses, shedding light on areas for improvement. Leveraging external information contributes to enhanced self-awareness and personal growth.

Man is said to be a social being. It is difficult for a human to function effectively or live to its total capacity without interaction with its environment; hence, the importance of peer reviews. On our journey to self-discovery, we must look critically at how to interact effectively with people around us. A man who will live to his full potential is a man who is conscious of how his behaviours and choices affect his immediate environment.

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I have heard people say a couple of times that what others think about them do not matter. They tend to live life superficially and not experience the true feeling of fulfilment. Sometimes this statement is born out of selfishness and a desire to lord over everyone. Christians should never live for themselves alone; not listening to others can leave a man to tread the path of self-destruction.

Jesus was willing to learn what his disciples thought about him. Peter said, “You are the Son of God.” Jesus Knew who he was, but Peter’s words reaffirmed it to everyone, and it helped Jesus drive this point home, ensuring his circle understood his purpose. 

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?“Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.” Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Jesus replied, “You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.” Then he sternly warned the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.

Matthew 16:13-20

I understand that we should not allow others’ opinions to rule us. We do not have to wait for the approval of the people around us before we make important life decisions. This is one important reason we have to surround ourselves with sincere friends; who will not be afraid to call a spade a spade. We are indeed unique. It’s almost impossible to meet people who have identical characters. It is proof of our uniqueness. We are God’s masterpieces who may not be able to be his best without meaningful and proper interaction with people around him.

The Process of Peer Review

To successfully conduct an effective peer review, it is essential to establish clear objectives and criteria for evaluation.

1. Remember, this process is to help you get insight, not to allow negativity and criticism. When you define the purpose and scope of the review, you set the foundation for a focused feedback session.
2. Set measurable criteria: setting measurable standards ensures the evaluation is objective and results-oriented.
3. During this process, active listening and open-mindedness are crucial. Listening to other people’s opinions empowers individuals to make informed decisions and take meaningful actions.

Benefits of Peer Review in Self-Discovery

There are many benefits attached to a constructive and healthy peer review process.

1. Peer review is a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement.
2. By engaging in a thoughtful review process, individuals can identify their areas of strength and expertise, reaffirming their unique qualities.
3. The feedback received through peer review encourages continuous learning and development, inspiring individuals to push their boundaries and reach new heights.
4. Peer review builds resilience and adaptability by helping individuals navigate challenges and overcome obstacles, ultimately leading to growth and transformation.

Challenges and Considerations in Peer Review

While peer review offers numerous benefits, it also comes with challenges that may sometimes be difficult to address.

• Handling criticism and managing emotions is crucial in maintaining a growth mind-set. Always remember that when you get reviews from others about yourself, it is not intended to bring you down.
• Developing resilience allows individuals to embrace feedback as an opportunity for improvement rather than a personal attack.
• Selecting the right peers for the review process is vital. Choosing individuals with expertise and integrity ensures that the feedback received is reliable and trustworthy. Establishing a culture of trust and confidentiality fosters a safe space for open and honest communication.

Concluding Note

Let’s take an example of products made by companies. A company that doesn’t take product reviews critically may be out of the market quickly. It is the reviews that give an idea of what to do to make the brand better. Suppose we keep this in mind every time; we’ll understand that what people say matters, but we shouldn’t let it form the basis of who we are because human opinion can be subject to circumstances.

 I once had a colleague who thought everyone didn’t love him. He felt everyone was against him. Most people didn’t like him because he was proud, and there was no one he couldn’t confront or fight with. He saw this as bold, but it made people withdraw from him. Everyone only thought of him as authoritarian. He will insult you and expect you not to complain or reply. If only he genuinely took what other people said seriously and worked on himself, he’d be better.

Peer review serves as an invaluable tool in the journey of self-discovery. By seeking feedback from trusted peers, individuals unlock new perspectives, evaluate their strengths and weaknesses, and pave the way for personal growth. Embracing feedback as a catalyst for continuous improvement fuels the process of self-discovery, enabling individuals to reach their full potential.

We must realize that we can continually improve when we are honest with ourselves. Peer review is a blessing if taken with an open and sincere heart. Peer review doesn’t necessarily mean negative reviews or opinions. If you listen to others, you’ll be amazed to discover that people have noticed potential you don’t know. Don’t be afraid to hear the opinions of others about you.

Today’s Task

• Pen down names of friends you can trust to give honest and sincere feedback.
• Note things you’ll love to get their feedback about.
• Reach out to them, asking them for their review. Let them know they can be honest as possible; you won’t use what they say against them. (you can create a Google form for the feedback or use an anonymous message site)