CRITICISM
What is it?
—>The act of giving your opinion or judgment about the good or bad qualities of something or someone.
Criticizing is a common habit we all have; we all criticize and are criticized most of the time.
Criticism causes conflicts: On the part of the person who does not know how to criticize and, on the part of the person who does not know how to receive or interpret criticism.
We all should know there are two kinds of criticism:
- Constructive criticism:
It is characterized by the idea of the message being the search for improvement.
- Destructive criticism:
The person who criticizes focuses on judging the person and not on their actions.
How to learn to make constructive criticism?
- Criticize results and behavior, not people: this way we will not question capabilities or the value of that person, but their actions at a particular time.
- Use the appropriate tone: give your opinion and suggest, but do not impose, so your words will not sound like an attack, but rather convincing.
- Criticize at the right time: If the other person is in a bad time (angry, sad), find another time to advise, since they will not be able to rationally reflect on your words.
- Offer other options and suggestions: It is okay to say that something needs to improve, but it would be better if we offer new ideas or points of view, so the other person does not feel lost, but motivated and willing to improve.
How can we stop criticizing? (in a negative way)
- Analyze the real reasons why you do it (low self-esteem, envy …)
- Be aware that the other person may be offended. Don’t do unnecessary harm
- Try to avoid judging with stereotypes. Looks are deceiving.
- Empathize !: Think how you would feel if someone were criticizing youHow to get the positive out of a criticism?
- Acknowledge what they are telling you
- Clarify and ask what is the intention of the person who is criticizing
- Don’t attack
- Interpret criticism positively
Marina Sevilla
