Criticism is often difficult to handle, for both the giver and the receiver. Here, in part one of a two part series, we’ll explore various suggestions on how best to handle the criticism that comes our way.

Criticism Comes without Warning

It can strike at any time, so you best be prepared, says Dr. Liz Hale in “Dealing with Criticism.” It’s important, she says, to avoid being insulted. Instead, be flattered that the other person took the time and thought to offer correction. Another practical tip she offers is to take notes during the criticism, which can help you stay objective.

Gretchen Rubin offers eight tips for dealing with criticism in this article on her blog, The Happiness Project. One crucial tip is to resist the urge to criticise your criticiser, though your instincts may tell you to attack. Whatever you do, says Rubin, delay your reaction and give yourself time to consider what’s been said.

In her blog, White Hot Truth, Danielle LaPorte responds to a reader’s query by offering eleven tips for dealing with criticism. Her suggestions include owning up to valid criticism, giving yourself time to process before reacting, and having empathy for the criticiser. However, she adds that not all criticism is meritorious and you have every right to rebut unfair criticism. After all, as LaPorte reminds us, “Criticism given without care is irresponsible.”

Constructive Criticism vs. Attack

This video at Design for Mankind introduces three artists and the way they deal with criticism, such as separating out the constructive variety from the non-constructive by seeing if the criticiser genuinely wants to help. Designer Jen Gotch explains that if criticism comes in the form of an attack, she tries to find a way to laugh about it. Artist Will Bryant says criticism of his work spurs him on to create something even better.

For five more tips aimed especially towards bloggers and website managers and how they can deal with criticism over the Internet, see this article by Yan Susanto at Retire @ 21.

A New Paradigm for Dealing with Criticism

Like beauty, criticism may be in the eye of the beholder (or in the ear of the listener). This article at Lifehack.org addresses the fact that while praise makes us feel good and criticism can make us feel terrible, if we truly wish to improve and develop, it’s best to create a new paradigm in which criticism is welcomed and even encouraged. The article also suggests that you disregard the tone of the criticiser and focus on the facts, so as not to take offense and miss an important lesson.

And finally, here at eHow is a list of six steps for dealing with criticism. Of particular note is Step 4, in which you become an active participant in the conversation, asking for specific details that will aid you in making the necessary changes.

Now that we’ve explored how to handle criticism on the receiving end, next week’s article will look at how to dole out criticism so that one’s comments are well received.

If you enjoyed the article "Dealing with Criticism – Be Constructive! (Part I: How to Receive Criticism) " - why don't you read more about the Whakate Way.