5 ways to handle criticism and see it as useful feedback, not a personal attack

Whatever you do in life, there will always be people who criticise you. Some people do it out of spite, but the most common form of criticism is from more experienced people who genuinely want you to improve. But no one enjoys receiving criticism, no matter how valid or constructive it may be.

You may have heard the phrase “take criticism seriously, not personally” before; while this is certainly far easier said than done, it really is the key to dealing with criticism in a healthy way.

Feedback – for the most part – is designed to help you, not hurt you. Here’s how to make criticism easier to swallow.

1. Ignore your first instinct

While it’s perfectly normal to feel hurt or defensive when you receive feedback that is less than complimentary, it isn’t the most helpful response. Instead of giving way to your initial emotions, take the time to pause, reflect, and compose yourself.

If the person giving you feedback wants to know how you feel about it, don’t be afraid to ask for some time to go away and think about it before you respond.

2. Sift the good from the bad

You don’t have to agree with all of the criticism you receive, but that doesn’t mean you should dismiss it altogether. Next time you are given feedback, decide what parts of it you think are wrong and what parts are right. It’s okay to want to vent about the parts you think are wrong, but don’t let that cloud your judgment about the parts that are really worth taking on board and remembering for the future.

Not everyone who gives you criticism is going to package it in an appealing way, and you might have to sift through a lot of dirt to find a few nuggets of wisdom.