Handling Critics and criticism is a must learn if one wishes to be an "Ace Performer" in his profession or business. Unfortunately, there are no formal courses on "Handling Critics and criticism". It is something you have to learn yourself, and sometimes the hard way.
The natural immediate response to criticism is to feel discouraged and unhappy. However, criticism has many and very positive benefits too. I am certainly not an Authority on Handling Critics and criticism. However, over the years, and thanks to some of my permanent, 'professional' critics I have evolved into a person who is absolutely "indifferent" to the opinions and behavior of others.
I learnt my first lesson on "Handling Critics and criticism" nearly eighteen years ago when I started Goa's first Dental Cramic Laboratory. Prior to that, I used to have a very good and cordial relationship with ALL the local Dentists in Goa. It is possible my Laboratory triggered the 'insecurity button' and created "an intellectual diaorrhea" in some of my professional collegues. They started spreading all kinds of well orchested rumors , and did everything possible to damage my reputation.
Although it was very painful in the beginning, I guess my Goa Dentist Critics indirectly helped me to learn a couple of "life lessons" in "Handling Critics and criticism". And thanks to them, these are some of the lessons I learnt over the years... I call them the seven Golden Rules of Handling Critics and criticism :-
1. If you are being criticised it may well be an indication that you have taken a risk and chosen to tackle something which others didn't dare to earlier . Receiving such criticism is "infinitely preferable" to being praised for something which is being done by everybody.
2.If you are convinced that the criticism is "unjustified", you should respond to it very "assertively". Sadly, I had to do it with some of the dentist colleagues in Goa, and I did it very effectively. Although unjust and destructive criticism can make serious demands on your inter-personal skills, it is certainly worth it in the long run.
3. Criticism should be regarded as a valuable feedback and a necessary part of "Life learning" process. It helps you to rectify your personal and professional deficiencies. And if you are not distracted by it, criticism actually helps you to remain focussed on doing things 'better' .
The natural immediate response to criticism is to feel discouraged and unhappy. However, criticism has many and very positive benefits too. I am certainly not an Authority on Handling Critics and criticism. However, over the years, and thanks to some of my permanent, 'professional' critics I have evolved into a person who is absolutely "indifferent" to the opinions and behavior of others.
I learnt my first lesson on "Handling Critics and criticism" nearly eighteen years ago when I started Goa's first Dental Cramic Laboratory. Prior to that, I used to have a very good and cordial relationship with ALL the local Dentists in Goa. It is possible my Laboratory triggered the 'insecurity button' and created "an intellectual diaorrhea" in some of my professional collegues. They started spreading all kinds of well orchested rumors , and did everything possible to damage my reputation.
Although it was very painful in the beginning, I guess my Goa Dentist Critics indirectly helped me to learn a couple of "life lessons" in "Handling Critics and criticism". And thanks to them, these are some of the lessons I learnt over the years... I call them the seven Golden Rules of Handling Critics and criticism :-
1. If you are being criticised it may well be an indication that you have taken a risk and chosen to tackle something which others didn't dare to earlier . Receiving such criticism is "infinitely preferable" to being praised for something which is being done by everybody.
2.If you are convinced that the criticism is "unjustified", you should respond to it very "assertively". Sadly, I had to do it with some of the dentist colleagues in Goa, and I did it very effectively. Although unjust and destructive criticism can make serious demands on your inter-personal skills, it is certainly worth it in the long run.
3. Criticism should be regarded as a valuable feedback and a necessary part of "Life learning" process. It helps you to rectify your personal and professional deficiencies. And if you are not distracted by it, criticism actually helps you to remain focussed on doing things 'better' .
4. Always aim to develop a positive attitude to any criticism which comes your way. See it as a way of gaining understanding, self confidence and as a contributor to your personal development. I can assure you, that, developing these skills makes you less susceptible to the negative effects of criticism .
5. If the criticism comes from a genuine well wisher, do not be overbearing and aggressive. Try your best to be kind, straightforward, open and honest. Even if you do not agree with such critics, try to relate well with them. However, be firm and express your views freely.
6. Always take responsibility for your feelings and stand up for yourself when necessary. In conflict situations, wherever possible, it is best to reach a 'win-win' outcome. It is always nice to look at an issue from the other's point of view.
7. Since "destructive criticism" often arises from jealousy and spitefulness, the best policy is to ignore it as far as possible. Although I rarely mix around with the local dentists in Goa, I am fully aware of the negative criticism that is going on behind my back (purely out of professional jealousy). I have learnt to "care a damn" for them.
I am sure, you too must have encountered Critics and criticism in your life, and learnt a thing or two on how to Handle Critics and criticism. Please do share your inputs with me. Who knows?... maybe your ideas will help me to get a Ph.D. in Handling Critics and criticism... Ha, ha, ha.
6. Always take responsibility for your feelings and stand up for yourself when necessary. In conflict situations, wherever possible, it is best to reach a 'win-win' outcome. It is always nice to look at an issue from the other's point of view.
7. Since "destructive criticism" often arises from jealousy and spitefulness, the best policy is to ignore it as far as possible. Although I rarely mix around with the local dentists in Goa, I am fully aware of the negative criticism that is going on behind my back (purely out of professional jealousy). I have learnt to "care a damn" for them.
I am sure, you too must have encountered Critics and criticism in your life, and learnt a thing or two on how to Handle Critics and criticism. Please do share your inputs with me. Who knows?... maybe your ideas will help me to get a Ph.D. in Handling Critics and criticism... Ha, ha, ha.
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