How to Use Criticism
Criticism comes in many forms. It can be polite, constructive, harsh, or even just plain rude. The way you choose to use criticism determines how it will affect you. Learn to use it in ways that will help you advance your career, build your self-esteem, and never get hung up on negativity. When you begin to follow these steps, you will notice a big difference in how people perceive you.
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Instructions
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Take notes---either mental or on paper---when you're being given constructive criticism. Whether the criticism is related to work, a specific project or just in your personal life, always listen and absorb what people are telling you.
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Accept criticism on the level from which it's being given. If a person is delivering helpful information respectfully, it is much easier to accept. If someone is critical because out of jealousy or other emotional reasons, it is much more difficult.
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Turn hurtful criticism into something good. You are the only person who can decide how people's words affect you. Instead of getting angry, hurt or depressed, choose to let the words energize and motivate you. Do not let criticism shake your self-esteem or paralyze you. Instead, decide whether it is valid criticism, use the helpful points and disregard the emotionally charged pieces.
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Write a list of all the recent criticism you've received. Also record how you felt about receiving each one. Consider how the way you received the criticism affected you and your projects. Think of other ways you could have handled the criticism.
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Allow criticism to inform your view of yourself in a positive way. Criticism is really a series of suggestions. Choose to follow suggestions that will help you be the person you want to be.
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Be sure of yourself, but humble. This is a difficult balance but necessary balance. Work your hardest to do the best job you can do, but be open to another opinion, regardless of who it comes from. Listen to everything, then decide whether it is useful or not.
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Understand that all criticism is an opportunity for you to re-evaluate yourself or your process and improve. Every critical analysis you receive is an open door. When used wisely, it will better you.
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Decide whether you have been criticized based on factual information about yourself or whether a person is criticizing you because they're insecure with themselves. Recognizing negative commentary for what it is will allow you to ignore it and focus your energy on helpful criticism.
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Have a sense of humor. Some people feel it is their duty to criticize everything about everyone. If you have one of those people in your life, think about the way their words affect you and how they might be holding you back. Laughing about their point of view may give you a whole new perspective. If you can't, consider whether or not you really want that person in your life.
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Tips & Warnings
Using criticism to your advantage is a process and a skill. Employers are not always good at delivering constructive criticism, but chances are that your boss is not simply a mean person. He may really be trying to tell you ways to improve without realizing how it sounds. Learn to use critical words to be a better worker rather than just an angry or upset one.
Resources
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