How to Love Criticism

Criticism. It's something we all experience, yet most of us resist it, reject it, or refuse it. But what if I told you that some of the greatest success stories in history were built on a foundation of harsh criticism?

Let's discuss how to love it, give it, and what to do with it.

How to Love Criticism

If criticism makes you uncomfortable, start by adopting three key mindsets:

Value Growth
If you believe your abilities are fixed, you’ll see criticism as a threat. But if you have a growth mindset, you’ll view feedback as an opportunity to improve.

Value Failure
Many people fear failure, but mistakes are part of the learning process. If you can grow from a mistake, it wasn’t wasted.

Value Humility
Pride keeps us from accepting feedback, but humility makes us teachable. The ability to admit you don’t know everything is one of the most powerful tools for growth.

What to Do with Criticism

When you receive criticism, use this three-step approach:

Rate Yourself
Reflect on how you reacted. Were you open or defensive? Did you actually listen?

Ask for Feedback
Share the criticism with your Challenge Crew to get a balanced perspective.

Listen, Thank, Apply
Take in the feedback, express gratitude, and most importantly, act on it.

How to Give Constructive Criticism

If you’re in a position to provide feedback, make sure you do it effectively:

State Your Intentions
Let the person know you’re offering feedback to help them grow.

Avoid Saying ‘Don’t Take It Personally’
Instead, acknowledge that criticism can be tough to hear.

Offer Solutions 
Criticism without guidance is just complaining. Provide practical next steps.

Provide Ongoing Support
Don’t just critique and walk away—help them implement changes.

Criticism isn’t something to fear—it’s a gift. When we embrace it, we grow faster, become better leaders, and build stronger teams. This week, challenge yourself to invite constructive feedback into your life. Thank those who have given you valuable critiques, and most importantly, take action to improve.

Brandon Matthews

Brandon is passionate about bringing meaning back to the marketplace. These are practical and applicable principles for your organization.

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