5 Smart ways to deal with criticism from others calmly

For some people, getting criticism from others actually makes them annoyed because they think they are unable to do something. In fact, if you know the strategy, criticism can actually be useful for improving yourself. So, here are some smart ways to deal with criticism so that you can learn the lessons well.

Benefits of accepting criticism from others

According to a journal from the page American Psychological Association, criticism from someone actually works for you. Provided you know how to deal with the criticism properly.

A criticism is usually aimed at someone to come up with a solution, especially in the creative industry. For example, suppose you create an ad design for your client and get criticism from your boss.

Maybe at first you didn't accept it because you felt the work you were doing was giving it your best. However, if you manage to see the positive side, criticism from your boss can actually improve the quality of your design.

Therefore, criticism is not always dropping. There are times when comments from other people actually add to your insight.

The smart way to deal with criticism

Criticism is not always delivered in a wise way. Some people, regardless of the feelings of others, convey it incisively without being straightforward.

Now, when faced with criticism, there are certain ways that emotions don't overwhelm you and damage the relationship between you and the critic. With the right strategy described below, you will likely be able to control the situation calmly.

1. Stay calm

When people give you criticism, even sharp and harsh ones, try to stay calm. You may feel that the critic doesn't appreciate your work, but don't keep replying with your emotions.

Try to stay calm. Take a deep breath to calm yourself down. That way, you can control your emotions so that unwanted things don't happen.

2. Listen first

After successfully mastering your situation and emotions, try to listen to the criticism that you want to convey first. By dealing with this one criticism, you will not appear defensive and the critic feels that you are a flexible person.

Listen to the parts that you think need fixing and don't interrupt or argue. If the criticism given is indeed constructive, you and the person you talk to will focus on what needs fixing. Instead of saying something to each other that aims to protect oneself.

3. Digest criticism well

When your friend or boss is over talking, try to digest all criticism well. Facing criticism without knowing what to say will make you look worse to them.

Tell them that you need some time to think because this matter involves both your work. This helps you see the various perspectives of the criticism.

4. Ask for examples of problems and solutions

One smart way to deal with criticism is to ask for examples of problems and solutions to their criticism. This may be more helpful when you are not so sure that the criticism is actually constructive.

If co-workers tell you that you are too lazy and don't take initiative at work even though you don't feel that way, ask for examples. Examples of what cases make them give such criticism. That way, you can also introspect yourself.

5. Be empathetic to those who criticize

The last way to deal with other people's criticism is to empathize with the critic. For example, you might feel your friend is being rude when criticizing you. In fact, they may not mean to hurt you.

Some people may lose their ability to communicate when it comes to dealing with other people. Without realizing it, he offended his interlocutor. In fact, they only want to help make things go well.

That is why it is important for you to empathize with the person you are talking to. Look at who is talking and how he is.

Basically, the smart way to deal with criticism is to stay calm while digesting input. That way, you can see more clearly what's behind the comments that may feel hot in your ears.