Dealing with Criticism at Work

By now, we should all have experienced criticism, especially at work. You know, people constantly telling you something isn’t right, showing their disapproval, telling you to do it over and over again. I know the feeling. Criticism is hard to deal with, especially when you are putting in your all. It is also very easy to misinterpret criticism, even when it isn’t a big problem. Not being able to deal with it can essentially cause negative effects on yourself and your career.

So how do we solve this problem?

First, we have to understand that criticism is not avoidable. In order to overcome it, we must accept the fact that it is going to happen throughout our entire life. The key is how we respond to it.

When dealing with criticism in the work place, one important thing you must do is stay calm. It is normal to be angry when your boss is always displeased with your work, but show them up by hiding your frustration. Don’t let their criticism get you down or discourage you.

Sometimes your boss may have good intentions and just wants to help strengthen your skills. But, even if they don’t come with good intentions, don’t take it personally. Remember, they should be judging your work, not you as a person. You don’t have to feel like a failure, or feel miserable and defeated. Take your anger out by putting in more effort to make it better.

Another good way to deal with criticism is to actually listen. Hear what your boss is saying about your work. Take notes so you can better understand how you can improve your task and know how to reach your boss’ expectations.

Although it is a lot to take in when you are being criticized, don’t be too hard on yourself. Criticism is about recognizing your mistakes, which we all make. Keep an optimistic mindset and ask yourself, “What can I do to make this better?” “What can I change?” Then apply those changes to your work.

But no matter what those changes are, do not give up! Sometimes too much constructive criticism can cause us to lose sight of our purpose and stress us out. Don’t let one person’s opinions keep you from reaching your goals.

The most important thing here is to stay positive and look at criticism as something helpful. Even if your boss is the rudest person you’ve ever met, use their judgement as a way to enhance your work. Try to stay positive, and let everything else fall into place.