If a novice writer showed his mother his shitty writing, she will likely heap praises on it.
If you asked your friend if your business idea is good, he is likely to approve it and encourage you – that is why he is your friend.
If you asked for face-to-face feedback from the folks who report to you, it is likely to be overwhelmingly positive.
Most relationships, conversations or even feedback sessions aren’t designed to be honest.
To get to the truth is to swim against the current. After all, it is not other people’s job to tell you the truth – they have little incentive in doing so. It is your job to find out for yourself.