Like this:

“Don’t focus on the one guy who hates you. You don’t go to the park and set your picnic down next to the only pile of dog shit.” ~ via ShitMyDadSays

Couldn’t have said it any better and gets to the point that criticism is a draining, counterproductive, negative world to be in; however it is part of life and is human nature.  The goal is to distance yourself from the noise of criticism (or as I call it: “Critters”) and continue to focus on what you are doing right.  While the ”critters” are criticising, you continue to make forward progress.  The key is to not allow it to hinder forward progress or cause a paralyzing effect.  Crush that little critter! 

Robin Sharma [Lead without Title] also had some great advice about criticism in is his Vlog about the “5 Strategies to Handle Criticism“.  Excerpt from the video:

1.  Every moment you spend focusing on criticism, the more you take away from focusing on your goals and dreams.

2.  Criticism is actually a complement (reflection that you are playing at excellence). 

3.  Leverage criticism as an opportunity (what can I learn from it?).

4.  Critics criticize out of fear (they don’t like change).

5.  Nature of Leadership attracts critics (higher the position and increasing responsibility, the more criticism that comes with it). 

I would add that you can also leverage criticism, utilizing it as a motivational tool to elevate to the next level.  Everyone is different, however the point is that you not allow criticism to start to unravel the fabric of who you are.  The world we live in loves to tear down those operating at a high level (successful) or operating differently from the norm of the status quo. 

Remember that those criticising are not in your shoes and don’t see some of the other internal/external factors you are facing.  I am not saying you become oblivious to criticism, however as a Leader you have to be able to filter it: take what is useful and let the rest roll off your back.

© 2010 Ben Larson (aka TheLeaderWay). All Rights Reserved.