Criticism is the easiest thing to give and toughest thing to receive. Agreed? I teach a session in one of my leadership classes on "giving feedback". Feedback is a slick word for telling others what needs to change in order for things to get better. Criticism is what I consider selfish and ego-centric. Criticism comes from someone who is more concerned with how they feel, or their perception of an event than with the welfare of the person who they are digging their heals into at the moment.
Admittedly, there are times when "feedback" has to be tough and determined, but at the heart of it has be a foundation of a sound relationship and respect. On the other hand, there are also times that "feedback" is incredibly valuable even though it may be packaged and presented wrongly.
So, here is some free advise: See all criticism and feedback as useful. Keep in mind that personal attacks are not criticism, but ego out of control. In those cases consider the source. In other events, Hear the words of Solomon, "to the hungry soul, every bitter thing is sweet". Be hungry for improvement, be hungry for others feedback; recognizing that there is something valuable in all things.
No comments:
Post a Comment