Publishing your work for the world to comment and criticize puts artists in a highly vulnerable and intimidating situation. It is easy to feel discouraged when negative feedback is received on a song or video that you’ve worked really hard on. There is always a reward for putting yourself out there, even if it comes in the form of criticism. Hearing the opinions of others can give you the perspective you need to improve your content and level up as an artist. Keep in mind there is a big difference between the people that want to help you succeed and haters that just want to hate on your work. Identifying constructive criticism and learning how to gracefully receive negative feedback can only help you become a more successful artist. If you need some help, here are a few things you should do to embrace feedback better:
Be Open to Change
In the words of Aristotle, “the only way to avoid criticism is to do nothing, to say nothing, and to be nothing.” Receiving criticism is essential in the process of learning and growing, and it is an inevitable part of life. There is always room for improvement, and there is always more than one way of doing things. When receiving harsh criticism, it is important to take the useful information and move forward. Criticism provides you with opportunity for growth, but in order to benefit from it, you have to be willing and open to change. In most cases, the purpose of feedback is to help you, not to hurt you. Receiving feedback from someone, whether it is negative or positive, shows that the person wants you to be better and expects you to learn from your mistakes.
React Positively
When receiving negative feedback a typical reaction is to get defensive, especially when the feedback is on the harsher side. In these situations, be sure to listen carefully and do your best to control your emotions. You have a choice in your reaction, and reacting in a calm and collected manner will help you to keep an open mind and deal with the feedback in a positive way.
Depersonalize the Information
Once you’ve received criticism it is your choice whether or not you want to take the information and learn from it. Find the value in what was said, and use it as a stepping stone for improvement or determine that the information is not useful and move on. Remember not to take the criticism personally. By focusing on what specifically is being critiqued, and that is not about you as a person, you will be able to embrace the criticism and use it to your advantage.
Ask for Feedback
If you’re not receiving feedback, ask for it. The people who request feedback from others are usually the most effective leaders. Asking others for feedback will show that you are self-aware of the fact that you’re not perfect. Ask others how they think you’re doing and if there is anything about your performance that they would change. You might be surprised by what you learn.
While criticism may be difficult, it can lead to major improvement in your professional career. The process of turning negative feedback into positive results will take time to master, but with these helpful hints, and some practice, you’ll start to embrace criticism and view it as an opportunity to grow!
In the spirit of asking for feedback, we always love to hear from you. Send us a tweet if you have any follow up questions or if there are any topics you’d like us to cover.