“How Was That?”

In my opinion, Van Morrison’s “I’ll Be Your Lover, Too” is one of the most beautiful songs ever recorded. At the very end of the song, after absolutely crushing it, he asks the recording engineer, “How Was That?” (I love that he left this part in.)

I saw Ed Harris give a stunning performance in the play Wrecks at the Geffen Playhouse. Afterwards, while waiting in the lobby, I happened to overhear him ask the director, Neil LaBute (also the playwright), “How Was That?”

Two monstrous talents. Yet both humble enough to genuinely want to know how they did. What they could do better.

No matter how accomplished we are or think we are, we all need someone to keep us honest. Always. Someone who can provide specific, objective and actionable feedback. Who has our best interests at heart. And the art or change we’re trying to make.

I hope you have someone like that in your life. Someone you can trust. If not, find one (perhaps it’s a small group of folks). Cultivate that relationship.

And while you’re at it, why not be that person for someone else? It’s an amazing gift you can give.