There are millions of people on the internet ready to criticize you at any moment for your hair, outfit, opinions, and even your business or creative projects. With so many views out there, it’s more important than ever to stand tall and authentic in who you are and what you do. Sometimes that can be difficult when dealing with low self-esteem or a large influx of criticism. But there’s one rule always to follow when it comes to criticism: if you wouldn’t take advice from that person, you shouldn’t take criticism from them, either.
As an aside, a couple of months ago, I told you guys about how when my husband and I started our YouTube channel how we had some serious haters in the comments section. Now it is comical that I ever felt any kind of insecurity about what was being said, but back then it really hurt. You can read all about it here. But I can honestly tell you, there are tons of people out there who don’t have their own YouTube channel where they post content, people who don’t really understand the topic you are talking about and haven’t researched extensively like we have and have no real knowledge at all about how to write and edit videos. Yet in the comments section, they have a plethora of advice for us! If it isn’t constructive criticism, it would be pretty foolish to take their advice, wouldn’t it?
When you take advice from someone, it means you trust their opinion. Seek out people who you trust who have already done what you’re setting out to achieve. Or consider the opinions of people who truly know you at your core and who have proven over time that they genuinely care about your happiness.
If you feel you are on the right path, listen to your heart, not the naysayers. You are following your truth for no one other than yourself. They don’t have to live with the regrets of giving up or not trying – you do.
If you’re worried about what other people think, here are four practical ways to help you deal with any negative feedback:
Evaluate Their Intentions
The most important place to start is to understand why someone is criticizing you. Often, when people are mean, it is because they’re dealing with something in their personal lives. Look at yourself, what you are doing, and the negative feedback objectively. Is what they are saying rational? If not, accept it for what it is and move on.
Consider If It’s Constructive or Deconstructive
The only criticism you should be taking is constructive. Like I said earlier with our YouTube channel, sometimes people leave criticism, but it’s constructive – and I actually appreciate it because it helps us improve.
Someone who offers deconstructive criticism is okay with hurting your feelings, undermining you, or offending you. Constructive criticism is about providing guidance. This goes along with evaluating intentions; if they are not pure, stay clear.
Consider The Feedback Vs. The Tone
People are emotional creatures, and sometimes they give great advice. But sometimes they say it in an offensive tone. In these instances, it’s important to acknowledge the individual and respond to the feedback politely, letting them know that you see the value in what they are saying. Their response, if any, will likely change to a more respectful tone.
Practice Self-Compassion
We are all human, and we all make mistakes. Sometimes we overlook things, and that’s okay. Own up to your shortcomings when they occur and understand that you’re doing the best that you can. You don’t need to be hard on yourself for being human. Be kind to yourself and practice positive self-talk instead of falling into a place of self-pity or self-hatred.
