We've all felt the sting of criticism . . . Sometimes painful barbs from friends, family, coworkers, or strangers can lodge in our minds and eat away at our core. When you allow criticism--even self-criticism--to affect you that powerfully, it can be toxic. And if you don't break the cycle, toxic criticism can make you sick, strain relationships, and prevent you from fulfilling your dreams. But you don't have to live that way! By using the proven strategies in Toxic Criticism , you can deflect any hurtful comment that comes your way, rationally decide whether the criticism has any validity, and, if you choose, give a calculated response or use it as an opportunity to make a positive change. Once you've mastered the techniques in Toxic Criticism , you'll be able
Eric Maisel, Ph.D., is the author of more than 40 books in the areas of creativity, coaching, mental health, and cultural trends. He is a psychotherapist and creativity coach, and writes for Psychology Today and Professional Artist Magazine and presents workshops internationally.
Lots of examples on how to overcome criticism as an artist and writer. But even then, the book was quite repetitive, asking the reader to continuously follow 6 steps. Think about if you were actually being criticised "the other painting you did was better" and if you took the harsh criticism (like from a boss) to write a letter where you let it all out.
In other words, brush of the critics.
Don't analyse their comments unless you see some truth in them (you are always late to work).
Avoid people who always criticize.
And when someone tells you, "you might not like it but I need to say this to you" -- just tell them -- "I understand you want to tell me something. If it means so much to you, we'll talk about it next week. Think it over."