Tips for When You Receive Criticism

Amy, a 17-year-old, said, "Being criticized means being told you've done something wrong. And I've never heard anyone say, 'I just love being criticized!'" Someone who ignores criticism is like a pilot who disregards instructions from air traffic control, which can have fatal consequences. So, what do we need to know? 1. We all need correction. "Don't be ashamed if you need to be corrected when you make a mistake." - Jessica 2. Being criticized doesn't mean you're a bad person. Tamara: "When someone criticizes me, I immediately imagine that it must not be easy for them, and that they actually care about me." 3. Criticism can help you become a better person. "Criticism is important for growing up; it helps us understand what others think of us. And we can get rid of bad habits that we might have had without realizing it," said Diana. So, what can we do when we receive criticism? 1. Consider the benefits. You might immediately feel annoyed when advised. However, try to let go of that feeling by imagining yourself having to give the same advice to someone else, like your younger sibling. "Sometimes, when we're so annoyed by criticism, we forget that the person actually wants to help us become better, not hurt us." - Theresa. Justin - "Being criticized hurts, but if I think about it again, that person actually wants me to be a better person. So, I just consider them a friend who cares about me." Charlette - "I can make mistakes, so I'm happy when someone tells me I'm wrong. That way, I know what needs to be fixed. The most painful criticism might be the criticism you need the most." Stay humble. Lena said, "Accepting criticism is important for becoming a responsible adult. If we're unwilling to listen and change, we'll only be hurting ourselves in the long run." Be thankful. References: Awake! April 2014. What Is the Purpose of Life? Three Reasons to Keep Living. Vol.95, No.4/Monthly/Indonesian. Print Run Per Issue: 44,748,000 in 99 Languages.