How To Take Criticism Effectively
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How To Take Criticism Effectively

Taking criticism is a part of life, everyone has to learn from it at some point.

Emily Kratzer
Oct 11, 2018
Longwood
85
https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-a-woman-thinking-941555/
Pexels

Nobody likes receiving criticism, but it's something one should learn to use effectively in order to improve. Whether it be academics, a profession, or a task; criticism can lead to progression or discouragement and failure depending on how you look at it.

Here are some tips in regards to how to take criticism and effectively apply it.

1. Stop and listen. 

Chances are, the one offering criticism could just be a loved one seeing the situation from a different angle. Even if they're not (or they aren't taking that approach), it's an outside perspective that has the potential to offer fresh ideas or advice that could be a game changer.

2. Ask for specifics. 

If your confused about what the person means or you don't quite understand, it doesn't hurt to ask. You can even bounce some ideas off them.

3. Be open minded. 

Change isn't necessarily a bad thing! There are multiple ways to do most things. Trying a new method doesn't mean defeat or that you were doing something wrong either.

4. Try not to be too defensive.

It's instinctual to defend yourself but try to hold back that initial reaction and listen.

5. Thank the person and be optimistic.

It is hard taking criticism, there's no lie there. But chances are, the individual talking to you genuinely cares about the topic at hand. Show them you appreciate them and their opinion, and consider the ways you can improve.

Taking criticism is a part of life everyone has to learn from at some point. Being able to understand what the criticizer is saying and comprehend how you can apply it to your task is a huge accomplishment. By taking a step back and applying these five tips, you should b able to do just that.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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