Embracing Feedback: 6 Ways To Handle Constructive Criticism 

it’s easy to think you’ve hacked communication and embracing feedback, until someone comes to burst your bubble. 

Feedback, or constructive criticism, is one of those topics with a sensitive side. In this fast-paced world, where things are constantly changing, it’s crucial to stay adaptable. 

In order to be effective in every season you find yourself, embracing feedback as a tool for growth makes all the difference.

So What Is Feedback? 

Feedback is information or response given to someone to help them understand how they’re doing and where they can improve.

It comes in different forms, through observation, advice or constructive criticism. Most times, it comes from other people and sometimes from personal reflection.

Why Embracing Feedback Is So Important 

Just like a mirror, feedback reflects your key traits, values and perceptions. 

It also reflects your strengths and weaknesses, creating a path for growth and better performances in the future. 

Finally, embracing feedback opens up new learning opportunities for you and builds your confidence. 

How Do You Embrace Constructive Criticism ?

See Receiving Feedback As A Necessity

The first step is recognizing that embracing feedback is essential for growth, so be open to it. What’s interesting is that it cuts across every stage in life that you find yourself.

Whether you’re a student, seeking a job, a new hire, or a professional in your field, feedback will find you where you are.

Understand Difference in Perspectives

It’s easier said than done, but when you’re faced with constructive criticism that stings, take a moment to ask yourself: ‘Is there something here I’m not fully understanding?’ or ‘If I gave this task to someone else, is this how I’d want them to approach it?’

These questions will help you see things from the other person’s perspective and possibly change how you feel about the situation.

When Embracing Feedback, Be Objective

By separating your emotions from the feedback, you can view situations more objectively. Understand that there’s a difference between constructive criticism and emotional or verbal abuse.

When you get feedback, focus on the specifics of what was said, consider the consequences of not addressing the issues stated.

Recognize any mistakes in your actions or inactions, but remember that you‘re not the mistake. This will help you make necessary changes without feeling attacked.

See It As An Avenue To Build Confidence 

Sometimes, when you take things personally, it gives you a chance to look within yourself and see if there’s a deeper truth you’ve been avoiding or overlooking. 

By taking time to reflect, you gain the courage to face issues directly, which builds confidence for the future. The more comfortable you get examining yourself to find and address a problem, the more confident and resilient you’ll become.

People’s Opinions Are Just That, Opinions

While it’s important to embrace feedback for improvement, remember that the opinions of others shouldn’t define you, even when they’re useful. 

At the end of the day, your choices, decisions, personality, and life should reflect who you are. Don’t let words hold so much weight that they change the course of your life negatively.

Sometimes, the best way to handle criticism is to accept it when it comes, but don’t dwell on it afterwards.

Be Calm And Respectful 

When someone comes at you with strong emotions, try to take a deep breath and stay calm. Once they’re finished, respond in a way that helps ease the tension in the room.

It’s not easy to hide your disappointment or feelings in those moments, but briefly reflect on how your reaction might impact future situations and let that guide your response to keep the situation from escalating.

Finally, if you’re in an environment where you’re constantly encouraged to reflect on your actions and results, value it. 

When you realize that the feedback you’re receiving isn’t meant to tear you down or silence you, but to guide and improve your output and creativity, you shine even more.

To be better positioned for success, check out this write up on failing upwards; https://blog.talenvo.co/why-techs-biggest-successes-often-start-with-failure/