Girl Toughen Up

We often hear the term "constructive criticism". Unfortunately, much criticism ends up being destructive. Would you like a chic critique? No matter how constructive someone delivers criticism, I have one question for you. Can you handle the truth? Don’t get defensive. We all need criticism. It's a part of learning. What we don't need is the anger, frustration and conflict that are so often associated with criticism. Nobody likes constructive criticism. It doesn’t matter if your work is being evaluated or someone is telling you “what not to wear”—hearing that you’re less than stellar can make you feel drop dead ugly inside. Deep down we all are striving for perfection which is why I often quote the great man that said “done is better than perfect”. What does that mean? Sometimes when we want things to be perfect, we are always “getting ready to get ready” instead of taking the plunge and going for it because deep down, we are afraid of being criticized. When you put yourself on the line both personally and professionally, you are going to meet with critiques and they won’t always be chic. Once upon a time, every time someone criticized me, I took it personally. In fact, when it was constructive, I still took it the wrong way. How did I get over myself? I swallowed my pride and started opening myself to receiving the feedback so I could better myself. “Girl Toughen Up” and learn to swallow the truth. That became my mantra. Learning relies in large part on recognizing (then analyzing and fixing) our mistakes. Yes, we all make mistakes. It’s okay to be vulnerable and show that you’re not perfect. If you want to evolve you have to be open to constructive criticism. Think of all the time and energy you’re going to save when someone else gives you an opportunity to correct yourself. You know what that’s called, a chic critique. Constructive criticism can also be used positively. Embrace feedback and if you should find yourself faced with destructive criticism consider the source. Some people will always want to put their 2 cents in and it’s not worth much. Smile and say thank you. You don’t have to buy it but don’t get defensive about it. If the chic critique is coming from a person you admire, look at the criticism as a way to further propel yourself. No one knows everything (stop feeling like you have too), and no one is expected to be right all the time. Sometimes, what seems like criticism is just someone trying to teach you something. If you are not growing you are not living your life to the fullest extent possible. So take the constructive criticism and put it to good use. Girl Toughen up so you can move in the direction of getting what you want. A chic critique can lead to a tres chic life!