What to Do with Unfair Criticism

If you are going to engage in truly great work, there will always be criticism. It’s tough to be in the spotlight; people are always wanting to take a shot at you.

If you aspire to make a difference, you will have critics. It’s just that simple.

But what about when the criticism is unfair? When the it’s just completely unfounded? What do you do with that?

Here’s how you should respond:

1. Say thank you

All feedback is a gift. It lets you know what people think of your work.

Even when it’s hard to hear, unfair criticism can be used to make you better.

So be grateful for it. And let the person know you are (even if you have to discipline yourself to do it).

2. Think about it

Reflect and honestly ask yourself: “Is there merit to this, anything I can glean?”

If so, apply it. But don’t mull over it for weeks without doing anything.

The point is action, not obsession.

Think, apply, and do.

3. Respond

Do this only if absolutely necessary.

Other than thanking the person, you should be careful how much you respond to unfair criticism.

This can easily turn into an argument or an unhealthy obsession. It’s tempting to get defensive.

If you do respond, don’t do so immediately. Wait 24 hours, calm down, and collect your thoughts.

Then, give a short, gracious reply that acknowledges truth in the criticism and helps address anything that may be untrue.

Keep it short, sweet, and to the point.

4. Then, get on with your life

Simple enough, right? Move on.

Don’t dwell. Keep going, and pay attention to those who don’t hate you. (If you’re doing your job right, you should have plenty of these people; if not, then maybe your critics are right.)

5. Consider bypassing #3 and continue saying great things worth criticizing

If you’re getting criticized, you’re doing something right. Find out what that is, and keep doing it.

And don’t give any more credence to critics than you’ve already given them.

If you’re being criticized, people are listening to you. Which is half the battle.

For more on this, check out this post by Paul Martin: How to Handle Criticism