Understanding Negative Feedback
The first thing to realize is that not all negative feedback is intended to be harmful. In fact, most of the time people who give you negative feedback are actually trying to help you. Sure, it may be hard to accept the fact that someone doesn't like your idea or suggestion, but it's important not to immediately go on the offensive or defensive. It can be hard to train yourself to act this way as opposed to the natural defensive way. However, positive change is possible especially with the help of programs like the The Midwest Center's Attacking Anxiety & Depression Program.Whether the opposing individual is tactful or not, it's important to take a second to actively listen to the negative feedback. Rather than simply dismiss the feedback as wrong or irrelevant, try to see if there is a kernel of truth in the individual's rebuttal. If nothing else, try to see where the person is coming from and why they are confronting you with negative feedback.
Avoiding Knee-Jerk Reactions
Of course, it can be hard to train ourselves not to immediately attack or defend against negative feedback. This is the tricky part, but it can be overcome through tactics such as stress management. By taking a moment to breathe, relax, and think over the feedback provided, it often allows us time avoid our initial knee-jerk reaction. If you feel that you might need help overcoming your reaction to negative feedback, it may be beneficial to seek out psychotherapy. This type of therapy allows you to learn how to cope with stress and negative feedback. In addition to receiving professional help, it's also a great idea to enroll yourself in a self-help program, one example if The Midwest Center's Attacking Anxiety & Depression Program.Dealing With Negative Feedback
Once you get past the initial feelings associated with negative feedback, the next step is to learn how to properly process it. That requires that the individual be truthful about themselves and his or her ideas. If the negative feedback is warranted, discuss possible solutions or alternatives with the person providing the feedback.If you don't understand why the individual is providing negative feedback, it may be beneficial to ask them to clarify. Oftentimes, simply understanding the motivations and thoughts of the individual can be the healthiest thing to do when handling negative feedback.
