Using constructive criticism to inspire action

March 13, 2023
6:16 pm

Joy Olaivar

Criticism is always hard to take

Most of the time, the criticism’s actual points are overlooked in favor of creating resentment, irritation, or sadness. Yet if you approach criticism with the appropriate mindset, you may really use it to urge you on to do better. How? Read on.

Focusing on progress

When receiving unfavorable feedback, you should phrase it in terms of your development rather than your resolve to stay engaged. Consider the critique in terms of your advancement—or lack thereof.

Use the criticism as a challenge to evaluate your progress—or perhaps lack thereof. In this way, if you feel that you should be accomplishing more than you have, it will motivate you to work more.

On the other hand, your motivation will likely decline if you begin to doubt your dedication as a result of the criticism. When you know that you are fully committed to your work, making progress is simpler. Several experts contend that rather than genuine talent, self-confidence is frequently a stronger indicator of your future success.

Growth Mindset

This relates to the notion of advancement. You must have the belief that you can improve, advance, and change. Learn from your mistakes and shortcomings in order to move forward. This helps you become more resilient in the face of difficulty and failure. The development mentality is the knowledge that learning necessitates overcoming obstacles and enduring since they are essential for growth.

Only by facing and overcoming obstacles can one grow.

Creating some space

You have to view your mistakes and criticism in a larger context. You must understand that everyone will face setbacks and criticism, regardless of how capable they are. You must thus view the criticism in that light, as one of the setbacks we all encounter and an opportunity to grow and learn.

This also implies that you shouldn’t take the criticism personally; that is, don’t see it as a critique of your character rather than your work.

Engage your emotions

It can be hard to receive criticism, and many people just want to brush it under the rug, but this is not a very effective strategy. You should consider the feelings it arouses and what those feelings are attempting to teach you.

Then channel the power of those feelings into constructive action. Consider the difference between responding to the criticism by doing something and using the dissonance to motivate you to do something.