Monday, April 16, 2012

A to Z Challenge - Never Take Criticism Personally

For the A to Z Challenge, my topic is leadership and goal-setting. I am posting short excerpts from my book, Overcoming Obstacles with SPUNK! The Keys to Leadership and Goal-Setting, along with an inspiring photo. Enjoy and dream big!

Never Take Criticism Personally

The best protection against criticism is to avoid taking it personally. Many times the judgment is not aimed directly at us, but we accept it as such. If our egos were not on the line, we would not feel so threatened! By removing our self-esteems from the equation, we find that criticism does little harm. We are then better equipped to handle criticism calmly and effectively.


17 comments:

RHYTHM AND RHYME said...

I admit I have taken criticism to heart but I think it all depends what is happening in my life at any given time. I have however hardened and think "It is only one's persons opinion" others think differntly.

Yvonne.

Stina said...

I'll have to tell my kids this one. They're at the age where their self esteem is at risk because of criticism.

Great advice. It's something I keep in mind when getting feedback.

Kyra Lennon said...

Easier said than done! I agree completely, but I do find it hard not to take it personally sometimes. :(

Anonymous said...

I like criticism, but I consider the source. I don;t like to take it from people I don't like. If I like and respect the person, then they can tell me whatever they want.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Yvonne, it is only one person's opinion.

Tamara Narayan said...

Now who would ever criticise so noble a cat? I do take criticism personally, but I realize it's a knee-jerk reaction. Then again, I have trouble taking praise. I keep thinking the person is only being kind.

Unknown said...

It's great advice but one of the hardest things to do.

Jai Joshi said...

Excellent point, Diane. This was something I learned very well while at university. Taking critique from fellow classmates made me realise that criticism could be very helpful if I didn't take it personally.

Jai

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Taking a deep breath and thinking before reacting helps as well.

DL Hammons said...

This is extremely hard to do, for even the most seasoned authors! But it can be done. :)

Eric W. Trant said...

I do like your kitty does its poop -- I put criticism behind me and cover it up.

Of course, I might take a little chunk of it with me, assuming it's a chunk I agree is worth keeping.

- Eric

harry @ GoalsonTrack.com said...

Nice advice. But it's hard to always stand away from your own ego.

Jemi Fraser said...

So much easier to say than do - this is one thing I definitely struggle with. But I'm getting better! :)

Anonymous said...

Hi Diane. Great advice.

Susanne
PUTTING WORDS DOWN ON PAPER

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Good advice but you are so right. It's tough sometimes to put your ego away.

Denise Covey said...

As always, Diane, the best advice, yet hard to practise.

Denise

Unknown said...

I love this message. When I began publishing (professionally) I had to reteach myself this very important lesson.
Rhia from Five Minute Piece for Inspriation (about #777 on the A to Z list).