CRITICISM DEFINED
"The goal of true criticism is to help someone be the best they can be...When criticism is done appropriately, the person who has been criticized will understand what he or she has done wrong and will feel inspired to make a change for the better. Not only should we not avoid being criticized, we should embrace criticism because it is the only way we can continue to grow professionally and personally."
Is the criticism offered constructively (in an effort to help)?
Does the critic have the insight and perspective to speak credibly?
LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN
Sincere criticism rarely comes without a morsel of truth. The trick is to stay open when confronted with negative feedback. When criticized, people are tempted to react defensively, angrily, or from a place of hurt. With emotions swirling about inside, it can be difficult to keep listening and to absorb critical comments.
Those who gain the most out of criticism hold their tongue and control their emotions in order to gain access to hard truths. By listening and remaining objective, they grow increasingly self-aware and improve their leadership.
