Learn how to Accept Criticism Without Being Offended

It’s perfectly normal to want to shy away from criticism. The last thing you want to hear is someone’s negative opinion of you. After all, you usually view criticism as something negative, right? Certainly, there are those who criticize just to be unkind. They cover their own insecurities by trying to make others feel bad. However, there are other, sincere people who only want the best for you. Those criticisms are the ones that you can you can benefit from by viewing them constructively. As you work to develop your strengths and skills, it’s important to learn to take advice. Positive feedback forces you to be inward-looking. It helps you determine where you can grow and can even bring you benefits that make your life more fulfilling. These tips can help you accept positive feedback and turn it into life-changing advice: 1. Consider the motive. Once you’ve been criticized, take a moment to decide if the motive is sincere.

• Are the critics people you’ve known for a while? Have they always offered you unconditional support? If so, chances are their motive is genuine.
• On the other hand, the person may just be looking for a way to bash you. Keep your eye on those people and avoid letting your guard down. It’s always a good idea to be cautious when you’re unsure about someone’s motives.

2. Honestly question yourself. Listen to the criticism and take a moment to digest it. Try to ignore the feeling of being offended long enough to be introspective. Take what you’ve heard and see if it truly fits into what’s happening with you.

• It’s easy to be taken over by denial driven by fear of disappointment. But taking this approach can only become burdensome on you. Make it your goal to go through life with a light heart and spirit.
• Replay the situation in your mind. Can you honestly say you agree with the criticism meted out to you? Perhaps an outsider can easily see something you may have overlooked.
• It sometimes helps to consider alternatives. How differently could a situation have played out had you gone with an alternate approach?

3. Filter the feedback. At this stage, you’ll easily be able to identify the constructive criticism. Put the unfounded criticisms behind you and look forward. Use the constructive criticism to inspire a favorable outcome.

• A reality of life is that you’ll always find detractors. There will always be people who try to keep you back. But do your best to take those people with a grain of salt.
• When you have filtered the unfounded criticism, take a moment to smile. Unfounded criticism means that you have something good enough that others want. You’re special and that’s something to make you proud.
• Take the warranted feedback and use it to improve your life. Give thanks for the genuine care of others. Make a promise to cherish those people at all costs.

Remember that criticism is just another obstacle in life. You can allow it to break you down, but it’s definitely better if you use it to build yourself up. Always aim to take the high road and approach life with class. You’ll sail through life with happiness and joy!