Criticism | Under Construction.

HOT TOPIC: Constructive Criticism. + we have loads of questions.

Have you ever had a friend or family member offer unsolicited opinions or advice to you? In that moment when they did that...did you know deep within the pits of your soul they were absolutely right about EVERYTHING that was said? So, if they were right, did you feel ecstatic? Or did you feel less than stellar about the very thing you knew you probably needed to hear?

If you are human and reading this at all, I think its safe to say you most likely felt less than stellar. You may already be thinking of a time when someone in your life gave you criticism and it was like hearing nails on a chalkboard. Why was that? Well, lets face it- taking constructive criticism is something that is not always easy. In fact, it can be one of the most painful experiences depending on the situation. We feel you girl.

Let's play a game. True or False?

“At times, we all need constructive criticism, meaning advice that can help us improve in our work or attitude”.

We say true and we have a good feeling you said TRUE too. We are confident in this because we know you are girl who is self aware and accepting that you aren't perfect. We love that about you- you keep it real just like us.

So it's true and we admit it. Should we also talk about it being especially hard to accept criticism if the delivery isn't seasoned with much salt? Yep! Lets talk. We get it- some people can get really harsh. It's easier said than done but if your critic's delivery is not super warm and fuzzy we encourage you to try not to focus on that. From our experience when we have taken the emotions out of the equation- often times there has been room for personal growth. Why? Because...

WE ALL MAKE MISTAKES.

WE CAN ALWAYS DO BETTER.

So, how can you accept constructive criticism... even if its uninvited?

LISTEN.

Step one. Zip your lips and throw away the key. We know how tempting it is to interrupt the person who is talking to you- but girl don't do it.

Pro tip: if you don’t respond impulsively, you will never end up saying something that you will regret later! Listen. Think. Speak.

FOCUS ON THE MESSAGE, NOT THE MESSENGER.

Okay so this is one of the hardest but it is K E Y. Be quick to listen, and slow to defend yourself. Remember, feedback can help you improve. You might be tempted to point out the flaws of your critic but there is usually some truth to criticism. So, don’t miss out on what you need to hear just because you don’t want to hear it.

KEEP A BALANCED VIEW OF YOURSELF.

One thing we have learned is that receiving criticism doesn’t make you a failure and that is a fact. We need you to believe that girl. Receiving criticism simply means you have flaws, just like her, just like us, just like everyone else.

SET A GOAL TO IMPROVE.

Resolve to work on the flaw that was brought to your attention. Create an action plan, and keep up with your progress. Don't be afraid to ask your critic how you have been doing with the criticism they gave you.

H E Y girl, remember constructive criticism is a tool that can sharpen Y O U. And as Kim K would say..."Let go, and Let God" aka...its not always that serious. Let it happen. Let it go. Learn to grow.

-xoxo hellogirlgang