Sometimes when someone says something that we perceive as negative, we feel attacked.
The key thing is to identify what it is.
(A) Feedback is when we do something, and the other person is telling us how they feel we did.
It could be good, or bad – and ‘feedback’ is generally couched in a tactful manner.
Pay attention, and evauate.
Accept or reject.
(B) can be unsolicited. For example:
“Here’s some advice on the interview. Wear a quirkie tie because the interviewer is a bit eccentric.”
Evaluate.
Then, accept or reject.
(C) is when the speaker lacks the tact gene. They may have standards that you’ve fallen short of, but may use language that make you feel defensive.
It’s harder to assess the objectivity of the comment but it will be in your interest to do so.
Again, evaluate.
Then, accept or reject.
Sometimes I feel empathy for the speaker, as they must be in a bad place to exude negativity in this manner.
Perhaps they ran out of coffee ☕ or donuts 🍩.
(Disaster!)
(D) Trolling. I suggest you reject, as their opinion can add no value to you in any way.
In fact, it can be toxic, so it’s best that you ignore.
Childish repartee optional.*
*to be fair, I come up with most of my witty comebacks and cutting responses about half an hour after the event, so I rarely engage when it’s (D). 😁
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