Nobody likes to be criticized. That is a fact.

Criticism greatly affects the performance of individuals. If accepted, it can motivate a person to do better, but if misunderstood, it can destroy self-confidence.

Who are our critics? They come in many forms and their criticism is delivered in a variety of ways. Your boss is sure to hit the top of the list, but these can also come from colleagues, friends and family members. In which case, it is therefore helpful to know how to handle criticism in an effective way before you turn on that primitive instinct of "fight or flight" mode. Cope with the situation in a mature way rather than go in circles in an endless cycle of offensive and defensive reactions.

With this in mind, a thorough understanding of the forms of criticism will give you the upper hand whether to accept, ignore or reject a critic's judgment. This is exceptionally relevant to situations where it can ‘make or break' your career.

Destructive Criticism versus Constructive Criticism

How do we know the intention of those who criticize us?

Let us first focus on destructive criticism. Destructive criticism does not in any way, aim to help a person. Rather, it is given to demean and hurt others. This is usually the recourse of a spiteful person. The critic does not care if you are hurt in the process as long as they can manipulate your emotions to serve their own interests. To come to the point, destructive criticism gives more attention on fault-finding rather than improving circumstances.

Reversely, constructive criticism is given with the sole purpose of improving someone. The critic's influence others to change their behavior in order to produce better results that align to certain standards.

 In a working environment, constructive criticism is meant to do the following:

•  Increase job productivity and provide positive feedback
•  Assist in the development of personal and professional growth
•  Lowers stress and reduce employee friction
•  Help build up strong interpersonal relationships
•  Establish an ideal healthy working environment

Results of Listening to destructive criticism

What is your initial reaction when you or what you did is being criticized? Your naturally reaction would be to respond defensively and make excuses.

How do you feel? You feel insignificant, worthless and disliked.

Many times in the past, destructive criticism discouraged you especially as it comes from individuals who don't share your values. If you let yourself be affected, then, you are in grave danger of losing to them.

So remember this: Listening to destructive critics will pull you back but listening to constructive critics propels you forward. And lastly, never ever trust a person who criticizes you behind your back.

Benefits of accepting constructive criticism

Constructive criticism is a valuable source of information for those who are open to change. Once you appreciate and accept criticism, you acknowledge that there is a need for you to change and then effectively applying that to how you think, feel and behave. Thus enhances your self-concept and relationships.

If you are attack by your critic, try to look beyond the gentle reproach or harsh reprimand and analyze the motive. One day you will be grateful and look back to it and say ‘It was part of the learning process and because of it; I am who I am today'.

"The final proof of greatness lies in being able to endure criticism without resentment."
                                                                                                                 -Elbert Hubbard