Photo by eschipul
Why Criticism is Important
As I’ve said before – you’re never going to be universally liked or loved. And the more you put yourself out there – the greater chance you have of being criticized. I’m okay with this – I’m okay with Criticism in general. This is why Ed Schipul is my mentor.
Several years ago, I gave one of my first ever public talks at RefreshHouston. My talk was all over the place, and by the time it was over, I knew I’d bombed. Hiroshima-style. But everyone kept telling me what a great job I’d done. In fact, initially Ed told me I’d done great. To which I replied, “Actually I sucked”. Ed grinned and said – “Yeah – you sucked pretty bad”. I can’t tell you how much I appreciated his candor.
Several months later, I spoke at a larger conference. Afterwards, a majority of the attendees came up to me and told me I was the best speaker they had seen all day. But the opinion I was really interested in – was Ed’s. So I asked him what he thought – and he said: “You didn’t suck”. Which was the best compliment I received that day.
Criticism and more importantly the ability to laugh at yourself is crucial to growth. Especially when what people point out is the truth. Take your ego out of it – and see this as an opportunity to grow.
Note – I put less value on the opinions of people who give praise to others too easily (and I count myself in that group). I’d rather have the praise of someone more discerning and harder to win over. There is something seductive about challenge. Of course, at the end of the day – my opinion about my life is still the most important.
P.S. Goodness – have I ever lost weight from the photo above.
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Erica OGrady is the CXO of Peanut Butter Media. She is currently HOMELESS while working on a project called Twilight & Tea. Erica is a Writer, Adventurer, Explorer who Still Believes in Santa and Following Your Bliss -- For more information Text ERICAOGRADY to 50500
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I have a hard time accepting criticism (constructive or not), but I'd rather that over praise. And I'm in the criticize-not-praise group — I've really had to learn how to praise people as a manager! Hmm, something I should write about.
PS: Post or send an up-to-date picture of yourself! I'm sure you look FABULOUS!
I have the same commitment to growth! Deep inside we kinda already know the real truth anyway, but getting a specific constructive critique helps me up my game! Then again, sometimes, I'm okay with being 'just okay.' Saying encouraging things like, "You really know (your subject) but you lost me with x …" or "I got really good info, but can you clarify y …" can convey the need for tightening up a presentation (or whatever) and keep your integrity, too! Brava and thanks for the post!
Funny you should write about presentations. As positive as I can be we will always be harder on ourselves than others. Even with all my experience and training I am always nervous before a talk.
Thanks for your candor and I have leaned heavily on my tapping to help me clear my pain around criticism, have you learned how to use that tool yet? Happy to teach you, its cool.