You will encounter criticism when pursuing your goals, whether they are business, career, or passion. There's no getting around it. People will start talking to you as soon as you start doing anything worthwhile. That doesn't indicate that you're doing something incorrectly. It's an indication that you're making an effort.
What counts, though, is that not all criticism is created equal.
There are two varieties.
Destructive critique is the first. These are the voices that are judgmental, insecure, or envious. They don't want you to develop. They doubt your skills, your value, and occasionally even your identity. Their comments pull you down rather than guide you.
The second type is constructive criticism. This one can feel harsh too. Sometimes it comes in a tone you don’t like. Sometimes it sounds like someone is being too direct or even rude. But deep down, there’s intention behind it. They want you to improve. They want you to see what you might be missing.
So how do you deal with both?
You pause—and you ask yourself a simple question:
“Is this helping me become better?”
For example, someone might say, “You look like a nerd when you’re doing content.”
Now instead of reacting emotionally, take a moment. Does that statement help you improve your delivery, your confidence, or your message? If yes, take what’s useful and adjust. If not, let it go.
Not every viewpoint merits a response. Furthermore, not every viewpoint is worthy of your consideration.
However, how you react is important. There's no need to argue. It is not necessary for you to prove yourself. It's sufficient to simply and calmly say, "Thanks for sharing, I'll think about it." That demonstrates maturity. That demonstrates control.
You should also keep in mind that your journey is unique to you.
Individuals may encounter comparable circumstances, such as financial strain, emotional suffering, or familial issues, but no two experiences are precisely the same. Everybody has a different way of expressing melancholy. Some folks do not say anything. There are those who speak up. Some people keep it for years.
Therefore, avoid comparing your path to the expectations of others.
You are not here to become another version of someone else. You are here to become your own version—through your own pace, your own lessons, and your own growth.
Yes, criticism will come. That’s part of the journey. But your responsibility is to filter it.
Take what builds you.
Leave what breaks you.
Because at the end of the day, everything you do in life should make sense to you first—not to the noise around you.
Mirhaa05 (hemirhaphysio@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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