I know I said I would kick July off with a status update regarding my 2011 New Year Resolutions, but Gretchen Rubin’s “The Happiness Project” is one of my most favorite blogs. Her blog and her bestselling book recount “the year she spent test-driving studies and theories about how to be happier,” and both resources “help you create your own happiness project.”
Recently, I came across an article she published in February about dealing calmly with criticism.
Gretchen’s tips are really simple (you can read the full article here):
- Listen to what a critic is saying.
- Don’t be defensive.
- Don’t fire back by criticizing your critic.
- Delay your reaction.
- Explain honestly the reason for your actions.
- Admit your mistakes.
- Explain what you’ve learned.
- Enjoy the fun of failure.
In the entertainment business, performers have to learn to accept criticism. During my training over the past year, I have received more criticism than ever before. And sometimes it’s easier to accept than it is at other times. (There were a few months in the spring that I found myself deflecting all of the time, which was completely out of character and mind-blowing for me!)
Gretchen’s eight tips for handling criticism are a great reminder to stay cool and collected for anyone working in an environment where he or she might receive constructive feedback, whether he or she is working with a client or a coach. I especially love her sage advice to “act the way you want to feel!”
How do you handle criticism? Let your voice be heard here.
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