Receiving criticism

Constructive criticism given by someone who is genuinely concerned for you can be very valuable.

When someone criticizes you, before you respond consider:

  • Where are they coming from? Are they really concerned for my welfare or projecting their own issues onto me? People who constantly criticize others are usually critical of themselves. They project these feelings on to others.
  • Is their criticism fair? All of it? Some? Or is it totally unjustified?

If it is legitimate, listen carefully. Ask for specific examples to make sure you’ve grasped the point. There’s no shame in this, in fact it takes a solid sense of self-worth to take justified criticism on board. But if the criticism is unfair, say so assertively there and then. Don’t let resentment build up.

©David Lawrence Preston, 29.6.2016

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