Criticism is an inevitable part of life. Whether it’s at work, in relationships, or in everyday interactions, we all face criticism at one point or another. How we respond to criticism can have a significant impact on our relationships, our personal growth, and our overall well-being. Learning how to respond calmly to criticism is an important skill that can help us navigate challenging situations with grace and maturity.
Historically, the concept of responding calmly to criticism can be traced back to ancient philosophy. Stoic philosophers such as Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of inner calm and composure in the face of adversity. Their teachings centered around the idea that we have control over our own thoughts and emotions, and that by practicing self-discipline and mindful awareness, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace that is impervious to external criticism.
In more recent times, the field of psychology has shed light on the importance of responding calmly to criticism. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, teaches individuals to identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of anger, defensiveness, or insecurity in response to criticism. By practicing techniques such as cognitive restructuring and relaxation exercises, individuals can learn to approach criticism in a more rational and…
Written by Helen
I’m a board member for the Harvard Creative Writing Collective and an outreach associate director for Harvard Women in Computer Science.