Feb 2, 2025
Criticism Fuels Growth
Yes, It's hard to hear criticism.
When someone points out your flaws, your gut reaction is 'WTF?!' - or in business terms, 'defensiveness.'
Of course, you want to protect your ego. You want to explain yourself, prove them wrong, or even tell them to f* off. Tempting, isn't it?
But defensiveness kills growth. Pause. Breathe. Ask yourself: 'What can I learn from this - even though I hate it?' Growth starts the moment you listen instead of emotionally react.
Nothing to learn from it? That's also ok but still thank the person who gave you feedback.
When someone points out your flaws, your gut reaction is 'WTF?!' - or in business terms, 'defensiveness.'
Of course, you want to protect your ego. You want to explain yourself, prove them wrong, or even tell them to f* off. Tempting, isn't it?
But defensiveness kills growth. Pause. Breathe. Ask yourself: 'What can I learn from this - even though I hate it?' Growth starts the moment you listen instead of emotionally react.
Nothing to learn from it? That's also ok but still thank the person who gave you feedback.
About Max Antonov
I'm a father of three from Sydney, a Product Director and a Product Coach. I write about product management and run the Product Manager community.
Feel free to reach out: [email protected].
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