depression-1250870_1280We all make mistakes. It’s human nature. At some point in your life, you will be criticized for the things you have said or done. Sometimes, it can be difficult to accept when someone is attacking your character or questioning your decisions.

Criticism is never fun. It can topple your self-esteem or ruin your day. You can’t control what other people says about you, but you can control how you respond to them.

Here are some tips on how to deal with people who criticizes you.

Take it as a learning experience

We are all imperfect, and other people may notice that from time to time. There will always be people who will correct, insult or malign you.

Criticism can cause anger or aggression and can even lower your self-esteem. It can bring you down if you let it. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is to listen.

Whether or not the criticism is valid, always try to see the positive in it. Don’t take it personally. Rather, use it to your advantage. Use it to improve yourself, and become a better and more able person.

Recognize the intention

When confronted with criticism, it is common to react in a negative manner. Some people may get defensive and. Some may try to avoid the conflict, while others will counter-attack. While these are all normal reactions, none of these seems to be effective.

Before you try to open your mouth, pay attention to what the person is saying. Try to understand the message the person is trying to convey. While some people criticize out of jealousy, there are some people who criticize you because they want you to become a better person. We often think of them as assholes. But sometimes, they’re just misunderstood.

Avoid critical people

Critical people are the least persons you want to hang out with. They have an uncanny ability to zoom into every little problem there is. They are also emotionally stingy. They almost always find a way to derail the mood of the conversation. Limit conversations and reduce contact with them. If all else fails, just cut him/her out of your life.