Approval vs Improvement Scorecard

How to Use the Approval vs. Improvement Scorecard

The Approval vs. Improvement Scorecard is a simple self-reflection tool. It is not a psychological test and it is not meant to label you. Its purpose is to help you notice how you respond when you receive feedback, correction, disagreement, or criticism.

For each of the 10 statements, give yourself a score from 1 to 5:

1 = Rarely | 2 = Occasionally | 3 = Sometimes | 4 = Often | 5 = Consistently

Answer based on how you actually respond, not how you think you should respond. Then add your scores for a total out of 50.

A higher score suggests that you are generally more improvement-focused. You are able to listen, consider feedback, admit mistakes, and make changes without needing everyone's approval.

A lower score suggests that you may be more approval-sensitive. Criticism may feel personal, disagreement may trigger defensiveness, or you may find yourself seeking reassurance from people who agree with you.

But remember: a high score does not mean accepting every criticism.

Improvement also requires discernment. Some people are habitually critical. Others genuinely have your back and care enough to tell you what you need to hear, not only what you want to hear.

So when feedback comes, ask yourself:

Do I DEFEND, DISMISS, or DISCOVER?

DEFEND: "Let me explain why I'm right."
DISMISS: "They don't know what they're talking about."
DISCOVER: "Is there something here I can learn?"

The goal is not to become criticism-proof.

It is to become secure enough to listen, discerning enough to evaluate, and humble enough to improve.

Knowing the difference determines how you grow.

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