Who would have thought that four simple syllables would pose a challenge when it comes to implementing it.
Live and let live? Easier said than done if you ask me. One aspect that the working world or just life in general will teach you is that you have to take a lot of things with a pinch of salt (or in some cases, perhaps a whole cup full).
I personally have gotten a lot better at it, there is plenty that no longer phases me – although had it been a couple months ago my answer might have been very different. A large portion of this is due to being in the workplace, something I’m very grateful for.
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If we all took every bit of criticism personally, there would be no time left in our day to get anything else done.
The bottom line is that feedback and criticism is bound to hit at any given time.
There is always going to be someone wanting to break your work down to the bones, either to mentor you or simply bring you down.
Regardless, what matters most is how you react and deal with it.
On the other hand, I suppose that it is completely normal to want to protect or stand up for that which you produce.
Human nature will tell you that this approach is justifiable, because only you would understand the hard work and commitment that played into your process.
Unfortunately not everybody sees it that way, in which case, live and let live.
On the brighter side of things, criticism is meant to aid self-growth, or at least that’s what the experts say.
Self-help articles or books will offer elaborate reasons as to why accepting criticism makes you a better person.
Now don’t get me wrong, a lot of it does help – they are experts in the field after all. You will probably come across tips that suggest ‘taking it well, analysing, accepting, questioning and improving’.
All of which are totally valid. For me though, I think the most important factor is honesty towards yourself.
When taking criticism, consider whether what the person is saying is actually true, question whether you genuinely can improve or whether you should have done things differently. We all make mistakes and we all have bad days.
While the pressure to perform optimally is always there, it is okay to admit that you made a mistake or that you didn’t follow through in the way that you should have.
The second factor is belief in yourself.
If you know without a shadow of a doubt that you have done your absolute best, then the opinions of others should not bother you.
Having said that, put your best foot forward in whatever you do, have fun, be kind and try not to take too many things to heart.
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