How To Decide Which Criticism Is Good Criticism

No matter what you do, there’ll always be someone who has something negative to say about it. As Dita Von Teese once said “You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there’s still going to be somebody who hates peaches,” so how do you know which criticisms to ignore and which to take on board? Well, it’s all about the intention behind the critique, so read on to find out how to know which criticisms are well-meaning and which are harmful.

#1 It’s from a co-worker
Sadly, you’ll probably get a lot of criticism about your work at one time or another. Whether you’re in retail folding clothes or in an office uploading documents, there’s always an opportunity for someone to take an issue with your work. Take the criticism on board if it’s given to you in a constructive way, if there’s an element of kindness to it or if it comes from a superior or trusted co-worker. If there’s someone who constantly belittles you for the way you do something, challenge them by asking how they would do it and don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself if you think your way is better.

#2 It’s said with a smile
It’s not easy to receive criticism. If it’s said with a smile and a hint of kindness it’s probably worth taking on board. Criticism can open up debates and allow you to figure out what works best to keep people happy, if you’re receiving criticism for a personal project keep your intentions and values at heart and thank people for taking the time to give you feedback.

#3 It’s nasty
Sometimes we receive nasty comments disguised as criticism, and it’s always best to ignore them. Often though, the trolls have a point to make and look for a weakness to exploit, so if they’re saying something that you think might have some truth to it, ask your nicer friends or commenters what they think. In real life, toxic friends or jealous co-workers might say something that stings disguised as considerate criticism, if it hurts your feelings it’s best not to dwell on it. Develop a second skin and let the hate just slide right off you.

#4 You don’t agree with it
You’ve heard the criticism loud and clear, but you don’t agree with it at all. If this criticism seems to come out of the blue and you don’t know where it came from, it might be best to ignore it. If you’re concerned though, dig a little deeper and ask around to see if anyone else agrees with it. Good criticism is just feedback designed to help you improve, so don’t worry about it too much if you find yourself shrugging often.

#5 It comes from family
Family often think they can say what they want without offending you because you’re lumped with them no matter what. But there are some family members who criticise too heavily, simply because they think they’re immune to offending you. They often mean well, but if criticism comes heavily from one member of your family, it’s about time you learn to ignore it or challenge them on their constant nit-picking. In most situations if a member of your family has a criticism to make you should take it on board, because they’re often the only honest ones around you who aren’t worried about upsetting you. If you have a trusted family member you should always turn to them for honest advice.

Sometimes criticism is hard to swallow, but if you look at it as advice on how to improve it’s not so difficult. As long as you ask yourself what the motivation behind it is, and whether the person giving you criticism has your best interests at heart or seems like a genuine person, you’ll be able to find out who is being constructive and who is being negative in no time at all!
How do you cope with criticism? Let us know in the comments below and don’t forget to enter our fab Dior giveaway to bag yourself a pair of sexy summer sunglasses!

---

Fashion favourites!