Updated: Dec. 26, 2015
Originally Published: March 29, 2015
Take the quiz below to evaluate your reactions to criticism, then explore Dr. Thornton’s strategies for managing feedback with confidence. Feedback is essential for growth, but those who are anxious often shy away from it as it can feel daunting. Evading feedback due to anxiety might slow your progress toward achieving your goals. Moreover, if you become defensive or unresponsive to criticism, the relationship with the person providing the feedback could suffer. This chapter addresses these common challenges.
The Quiz
- When considering feedback on your work, how likely are you to anticipate negative comments?
(A) I generally expect positive feedback because I see myself as competent.
(B) I feel anxious about negative responses but can manage it.
(C) I often assume feedback will be critical. - If your supervisor highlights nine strengths and one area for improvement, how do you typically respond?
(A) I take proactive steps to maintain the positive feedback.
(B) I appreciate the positive feedback but dwell on the negative for a bit.
(C) The negative comment lingers in my mind for days. - How confident are you in handling constructive criticism?
(A) I trust my ability to make necessary changes.
(B) I might dwell on it for a while, but I know I’ll recover after a quiet evening with a movie and a glass of wine.
(C) I’d feel so hurt that facing the feedback provider again would be difficult. - How likely are you to take negative feedback personally?
(A) I usually don’t take feedback to heart.
(B) I sometimes do, but I recognize when I’m doing it.
(C) It feels like the person is criticizing me rather than my work. - How often do you avoid seeking feedback on your work?
(A) I embrace feedback as a valuable tool.
(B) I avoid feedback in certain aspects of my life.
(C) I only seek feedback when absolutely necessary; I’d rather visit the dentist. - When someone acts oddly towards you without explanation, how do you react?
(A) I remind myself it could be about them, not me, and try not to overanalyze.
(B) I worry I’ve upset them and try to be extra accommodating; this disturbs me for a few days.
(C) I obsess over their behavior for days, trying to figure out what I did wrong. - If you ask someone if your jeans make you look heavier, are you truly ready for their answer?
(A) Absolutely.
(B) Yes, but I need them to be tactful.
(C) Not at all.
Scoring Your Responses
Mostly A’s: You generally view feedback and criticism as constructive and don’t feel threatened by it. If negative feedback stings, you can contextualize it without blowing it out of proportion. You’ve likely handled feedback well in the past, making you adept at adapting as needed.
Mostly B’s: You occasionally expect negative feedback. While you can accept that it isn’t personal, you sometimes find yourself fixating on the negatives, especially when they’re mixed with positives.
Mostly C’s: Feedback is highly anxiety-inducing for you. It leaves you feeling exposed and vulnerable. You often expect critical input and lack confidence in your ability to address the highlighted issues. Negative feedback can feel like a personal attack, causing you to avoid opportunities that might expose you to more of it.
Strategies for Handling Criticism:
- Reframe Your Mindset: Train yourself to understand that not all criticism is personal. If you overhear a conversation that makes you anxious, remind yourself that it may not be about you.
- Seek Feedback Gradually: Start by soliciting feedback from someone who has a positive view of you. This can help ease you into accepting criticism.
- Request Small Bits of Feedback: If feedback feels overwhelming, ask for it in smaller doses. For instance, if you’re launching a product, seek input from one person at first to allow yourself time to process.
- Acknowledge Your Sensitivity: Understand that being sensitive to feedback is a natural response. It’s a trait that helps prevent social exclusion, which has been crucial for survival throughout history.
For additional insights on personal growth and feedback, visit this resource.
In your journey toward self-improvement, consider checking out this guide for effective strategies. For a comprehensive understanding of pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC’s website is an excellent resource.
Summary:
This quiz helps gauge your comfort level with feedback and criticism. Understanding your reactions can empower you to handle feedback more effectively, fostering personal growth and healthier relationships.
Keyphrase: Fear of Feedback
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