It is common knowledge to every man that nobody is perfect; however, this knowledge doesn’t make individual imperfections seem less hurtful. This is why giving or receiving criticism is never easy.
Nobody wants their mistakes and imperfections pointed out to them, especially after they have spent a lot of time and energy perfecting the task. Most people want to be commended for doing a good job.
However, it is important to know that criticism is an excellent way to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Constructive criticism can guide you, help you improve, and achieve greater heights in your chosen area of specialization; therefore, it is important to know how to receive and accept criticism when it doesn’t make you happy.
What is Criticism?
According to the Oxford dictionary, criticism is the disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults or mistakes. Simply put, it is passing judgment and evaluating the merits of anything.
You can’t control how criticism is presented but learning how to receive and control how you react to it is vital. Regardless of the form, it is given, criticism can help you identify your weakness and strategize your future approach.
Here are five ways to accept criticism and become successful with it.
Don’t react immediately.
It is natural to become defensive when faced with criticism. However, there are better courses of action than when facing criticism. When faced with criticism, remind yourself to take a deep breath and calm down.
Listen to the critic, take time to process the criticism logically, and let your emotions run their course. This would help you learn from the criticism and help you deal with rather harsh criticism in a positive manner.
Have an open mind:
When being offered criticism, you must listen honestly, intending to learn. Don’t listen to criticism with a preconceived mindset against the person offering you criticism.
Don’t think of criticism as a personal jab or insult. Accept criticism as is, don’t add to it or try to ignore some parts. Refrain from questioning the feedback you are getting. Have an open mind and be prepared for growth and improvement through criticism.
Appreciation
After you have ensured you have received the feedback, it’s time to appreciate the other person. Express your appreciation by saying thank you. This step is crucial because it is important to show the other person you appreciate and acknowledge their efforts and comments. Even if the criticism was destructive still appreciate them. Appreciation doesn’t necessarily mean you agree with the evaluation.
Learn from the observations
Every word of criticism, whether constructive or destructive, has some element of truth in it. This is why it is essential to deconstruct the criticism received and find its lessons. Put in extra effort where needed and adjust your plans to include some of the corrections made in the observations.
Take action
The aim of receiving criticism is to improve and get better in your areas of specialization. This is why taking action to improve yourself after receiving criticism is essential.
Here are some steps you can take after receiving criticism
– Have a follow-up appointment with the critic to find out how to improve.
– Avoid making excuses for yourself and take responsibility for your growth.
– Go for training and take classes to be better at your craft.
Never stop learning, remember the benefits of your feedback, and work on your growth.
