How Do We Handle CRITICISM?

How Do We Handle CRITICISM?

WHO wants CRITICISM?  Absolutely no one amongst us.  Many times in the middle of nowhere, we will hear something that borders way beyond just being another noise.  And the worst part is when CRITICISM comes even when it is UNSOLICITED.  But first and foremost, handling CRITICISM involves understanding the critic.  NEGATIVE feedback arises in different contexts and each merits a different approach.  So, really, How Do We Handle CRITICISM❓❓❓

As CRITICISM is part and parcel of living in this world, posting on social media, performing in your stand-up comedy OR even coaching a student OR protege, all those well-meaning efforts and intentions will absolutely invite judgment + CRITICISM.  And doing anything truly innovative will guarantee it.  So, HOW can you ready yourself and NOT be discouraged from stepping outside of your box?  These are mind-boggling💥💥💥

Frankly, CRITICISM may seem scary because it could come in various forms.  BUT since this is inevitable, HOW do we handle all these?

DIG FOR THE SOFTER EMOTION - Angry CRITICISM almost always means the critic feels hurt in some way.  One key thing to remember during these times is that ANGER is a secondary emotion, it is a reaction to and expression of a softer primary emotion underneath like hurt, shame, OR humiliation.  People get hurt first and then get angry BUT by dig beneath the superficial anger in search of the softer emotion, it's much easier to feel sympathetic toward them📗📙📘

DON'T GET DEFENSIVE - Reacting defensively shows insecurity plus you'll just come across as aggressive and difficult.  And blaming is even worse.  Resist throwing someone 'UNDER THE BUS'.  Handling NEGATIVE feedback is often the hardest as it stinks to hear your idea ISN'T up to par.

CRITIC MAY BE WRONG - Ultimately, feedback is an opinion shaped by the giver's context , values and place in life.   You can always reject CRITICISM that does NOT match WHAT your core beliefs tell you is correct and that can be empowering and WHEN it's turn to hear CRITICISM, remember just because someone else says it, it DOESN'T mean that that is TRUE!@#$%?

OR maybe your critic has a point.  The flip side of the misunderstood genius is the slacker with potential.  Sometimes, CRITICISM might just mean your work ISN'T your best effort yet.  OR maybe your presentation is sloppy OR your idea is NOT well thought-out enough.  Consider to seize the CRITICISM as an opportunity, an improvement area for us to assess its feasibility and viability.  Maybe, some extra polish may make your work shine.  You can even thank your critic for it and get back to work [with a positive mindset].  Our takeaway:  CRITICISM may be done either in good faith OR bad faith and it behooves that we give it the benefit of the doubt way prior to 'digesting' it.  HOW TO HANDLE CRITICISM is not that steep to climb✅✅✅