Dealing with Unfair Criticism: 4 Tips No One Ever Told You

If you’re going to create art, to engage in work worth remembering, then don’t forget this one thing: There will always be critics. There will always be people who malign, insult, and correct you uncharitably. And sometimes, you need to listen to them.

It’s tough to be in the spotlight. It’s difficult to do work that attracts attention, especially when it’s negative. People are always wanting to take a shot at you for something. But if you aspire to make a difference in the world, you will undoubtedly encounter criticism — it’s just that simple.

Knowing what to do when this occurs is half the battle. Sometimes, of course, the criticism is valid. We aren’t perfect and often need correction in order to grow. But other times, it’s not.

What do we do when the criticism is unfair? When the words coming from a critic are unfounded?

Here are four tips I’ve learned along the way on how to respond to unfair criticism:

1. Say thank you

All feedback is a gift, even when it feels like a weapon. It lets you know what people think of you. Even though it’s hard to hear, negative criticism can be put to good use.

Be grateful for criticism, and let the person know you are (even if you have to discipline yourself to do this). Saying thanks to a critic takes away the wounding power of words and puts you back in control.

2. Think about it

Reflect and honestly ask yourself: “Is there any merit to this?” If so, apply it. But don’t mull over the critique for weeks without acting. The point is action, not obsession. Think, apply, do.

3. Respond slowly

Responding to a critique can easily turn into an argument. Try to avoid the temptation of getting defensive, and instead, wait 24 hours before reacting. Calm down, collect your thoughts, then give a short, gracious reply. Honestly admit something they said was true and that you’re doing your best to work on it.

4. Get on with your life

Don’t dwell on unfair criticism. Delete the email, throw away the note, erase the voicemail, and get back to work. You must keep going, remembering that if you’re doing your job right, there will be haters. Your job is to continue creating things worth criticizing.

Lastly, if you’re getting criticized, you’re doing something right. Find out what that is, and keep doing it. This means people are listening to you, which is half the battle of being an artist — getting heard.

For those who endeavor to do creative work in the world, whether in business or art, it’s important to remember that the world doesn’t remember those who quietly follow the status quo.

Leaving your mark may leave a few scars, but they will be worth it. So get on with what is yours to do, and don’t give any more credence to critics than you already have.

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This post originally appeared on GoinsWriter.com.