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Quiz: How Intimidated Are You by Feedback and Criticism?
by Dr. Emily Carter
Updated: Dec. 26, 2015
Originally Published: March 29, 2015
Take the quiz below to evaluate your reactions to criticism, and afterward, explore Dr. Carter’s strategies for managing feedback with confidence. Feedback is essential for personal and professional growth; however, individuals with anxiety often shy away from it due to its perceived threat. This avoidance can hinder progress towards achieving your objectives. Moreover, an inability to accept criticism may strain your relationships with those providing feedback. This quiz aims to illuminate these common challenges.
Respond to the following questions to gauge your apprehension about criticism. Select the answer that resonates most closely with your feelings. If none seem perfect, choose the one that comes closest.
The Quiz
- When contemplating seeking feedback on your work, how likely are you to anticipate negative responses?
(A) I typically expect positive feedback because I view myself as competent.
(B) I feel anxious about the possibility of a negative response, but it doesn’t paralyze me.
(C) I generally assume feedback will be unfavorable. - When your supervisor highlights nine strengths and one area for improvement, how do you usually react?
(A) I plan straightforward actions to maintain the positive feedback.
(B) I appreciate the overall positive feedback, but the negative comment bothers me a bit.
(C) That single negative comment lingers in my mind for days. - How confident do you feel in handling valid negative feedback?
(A) I trust my ability to make necessary improvements.
(B) I might stew over it for a while, but I know I’ll get through it after a cozy night with a glass of wine and a good show.
(C) I think I would feel so hurt and embarrassed that it would be hard to face the person giving feedback again. - How likely are you to take negative feedback personally?
(A) I don’t usually take feedback personally.
(B) I do personalize feedback sometimes, but I’m self-aware enough to recognize it.
(C) Negative feedback makes me feel like the person dislikes me rather than my work. - How often do you avoid seeking feedback on your work?
(A) I actively seek feedback; it’s beneficial.
(B) I avoid feedback in certain areas of my life.
(C) I only get feedback if absolutely necessary; I’d rather undergo a dental visit. - When someone behaves oddly towards you without apparent reason, what’s your typical response?
(A) I think, “It’s probably about them, not me. I shouldn’t overanalyze it.”
(B) I worry I might have offended them and try to be overly pleasant to remedy the situation. I dwell on it for a few days.
(C) It troubles me significantly; I spend days contemplating the cause of their behavior. - If you ask someone if you look good in your outfit, are you genuinely seeking their opinion?
(A) Yes.
(B) Yes, but I need them to phrase it carefully.
(C) Absolutely not.
Interpreting Your Responses
- Mostly A’s: You generally view feedback and criticism as constructive and are not intimidated by it. While negative feedback may sting, you can place it in context without overreacting. You believe in your ability to handle feedback effectively, making necessary adjustments without jumping to conclusions about others’ opinions of you.
- Mostly B’s: You sometimes expect negative feedback. Although you can appreciate the positives in feedback, you may find yourself fixating on the negatives. You often recognize that feedback isn’t personal, yet you sometimes struggle not to take it to heart.
- Mostly C’s: Feedback is a significant source of anxiety for you. You often feel vulnerable and anticipate negative responses, doubting your capacity to address highlighted issues. Criticism feels like a personal affront, leading you to avoid feedback altogether, which can prevent you from seizing opportunities.
Strategies for Navigating Criticism
- Reframe Your Thoughts: Train yourself to recognize that feedback may not be personal. If you overhear a conversation that makes you anxious, remind yourself that your worries may stem from your anxiety rather than actual circumstances.
- Seek Constructive Feedback: It’s easier to accept negative feedback if you know the provider has a generally positive view of you. Start by asking for feedback from someone you trust to help build your confidence.
- Request Small Bits of Feedback: If feedback is daunting, begin by asking for small pieces at a time. For instance, if you’re preparing to launch a product, seek insights from one person first. This helps you process and recover emotionally before tackling more extensive feedback.
- Acknowledge Your Sensitivity: Being sensitive to feedback is a natural trait, as it can promote social harmony and prevent exclusion. It’s important to understand that wanting acceptance is an evolutionary advantage and not a flaw.
This article was initially published on March 29, 2015.
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Summary
This quiz allows you to evaluate your fear of feedback and criticism, highlighting how you typically react to such situations. Recognizing your tendencies can help you develop strategies to manage anxiety around feedback, ultimately fostering personal and professional growth.
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