“Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.
Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. Proverbs 13:31-32
Introduction
Providing feedback and constructive criticism can be seen as both negative and positive depending on how it is given and received and who provided it. Mind you there are individuals who deliberately and intentionally criticize others just to hurt them. However you should be wise enough to decipher good feedback versus bad advice.
Overall, I think constructive criticism is a recipe for success. Sometimes you are so preoccupied with your own thoughts and beliefs that you are unable to see different perspectives. Perhaps you do not even trust anyone. Perhaps you think you know everything.
However, if you were truly to examine the content of criticism, focus on the message and not focus on the messenger, you may realize that the criticism may just allow you to grow and become successful.
A few weeks ago, someone provided me with a constructive feedback on the direction of Financially Speaking, a show I host every Tuesday. Initially, I was distraught but as I reflected on what the gentlemen said to me, I realized he had a valid point and I had to refocus on what the real purpose of the show was. Had the gentleman not tell me that, perhaps I may have continue on the path the gentleman perceived about the show.
Digest the feedback
I know many times we get very offensive when receiving constructive criticism. Sometimes we get so upset with the criticism that we start planning revenge and discontinue speaking to the individuals that provided the feedback.
However, the best thing to do is not to react immediately, digest the feedback and consider the feedback. Really and truly if you were to receive the criticism with good intent and implement the recommended suggestions, you will find that it will make your life successful.
A measurement of performance
Constructive criticism can be seen as a measure of your performance. Lack of feedback can be detrimental to your success. You may be think things are going well because there is no feedback and you continue with the same pattern.
Imagine you are on a job and you are not given constructive feedback. You would think all is well but the moment you leave and go on another job, you may feel personal when you get feedback.
Conclusion
Some criticism can be very destructive and petty. You will have to determine what to take on as constructive criticism as there are many complainers too. Accepting feedback and constructive criticism is a wise thing and it will make you look successful at the end of the day. If you do not accept the criticism, someone else may take that criticism and run with it and in the end becomes the successful one. Do not become bitter with individuals who provide criticism otherwise your life will be full of bitterness and lack of trust and you will be living a defeated life.