We all deal with it. Our art is very personal; it is an expression of the depths of our being.

Criticism from others has torn me to shreds. Likewise, it has created feelings of inadequacy and anger. Someone else’s disapproval of my abilities impacts my self worth.

Opinions Are Like Armpits,

Everybody Has Two And They Both Stink

Judging involves having an opinion on something, pointing it out to be either good or bad. Criticism, however, is expressing an opinion on something without pinpointing anything good or bad.

On the positive side, criticism can be an evaluative or corrective exercise.

Opinion Ghettos

People who pass judgment and have hateful opinions live in this slum.

An impoverished mind set can become a place where we are overly concerned about the opinions of others. This is a place of squalor.

My personal challenge is to overcome points of view that are destructive. It is super critical to surround yourself with associations that are positive and supportive. I actively pursue relationships that are naturally reciprocal. You never know when you may need to lean on someone for support. In the same way, we can be available for those who need ours.

The Winner Is?

And the most prevalent Opinion Ghetto? Social media.

When your art stands for something these folks can come out of the woodwork. Especially if they don’t agree with or understand you. Worse, they have no risk of personal confrontation. People hide behind Facebook’s invisible wall with no accountability.

Hateful posts have destroyed people. Someone posts an emotional trigger and complete strangers jump on the band wagon. Reputations become questionable and ruined.

Count on someone being jealous when you attain success. This can be a sign post that you are doing something right.

Humility

I have learned to be more accepting of others. Practicing thinking as others helps create empathy towards my fellow human beings.

Humbleness can be tough. Listening to the opinions of others can be super frustrating. It is a hard pill to swallow, especially when we are more competent than our critics. Why does it seem those with the strongest criticisms are often the most flawed in their execution? Regardless, my response is respectful, measured and introspective. Maybe my detractor has a point.

Understanding

I have learned to use criticism to evaluate myself. It is super important to listen to what others have to say. Objective intent can actually teach something. Yet truth hurts if you let it; there is perspective in a haters criticism, you only have to find it.

A lot of judgement from others can create anger. Remember, they are not the ones who provoke our emotions. I am the one who gets to choose my response to negative comments.

Application

Negativity is everywhere, you can’t to get away from it. Everyone will not embrace your art. Use that as motivation; have appreciation for where you are right now.

Conformity is super comfortable. Avoid the pressure of caving into a critic’s observations together with maintaining your individuality.

Our process of creativity involves independent thinking and motivation. Our belief systems and character can come under attack but we can use this to show critics that they are incorrect in their observations. Displaying attainment and accomplishment quiets the doubters and haters.

Take pride in your achievement, succeeding when critics would have you fail.

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