Constructive Criticism

Criticism, commonly taken as a synonym for disapproval expressed by pointing out one's faults, can actually be a thoughtful analysis if done constructively. Constructive criticism is an expression of compassion towards the person whose work one is criticizing. Constructive critics often have a healthy relationship with the person they qualify for criticism. The cordial relationship between the critic and the criticized helps both the parties handle criticism in the right way.

Criticism in the form of unintentional yet hurtful judgments may be difficult for the critic to give and for the criticized to receive. But if taken in the right spirit, it can actually help. Constructive criticism can be referred to as critical evaluation of a piece of work and it can help in its improvement. Constructive criticism is rather a necessity of every new work. It helps the creator of the piece of work improve; it helps the creator get his/her work analyzed. For constructive criticism to serve its purpose it is important for both parties to deal with criticism positively.

The critic should understand the reason behind his/her criticism. It is not correct to criticize something just for the heck of it. The knowledge of the field of work, the expertise in the field gives a person the right to criticize. One should criticize a piece of work only if he or she has complete knowledge of the subject dealt with, in the piece. Shallow information about a subject, mere know-how of certain things surrounding the subject and a biased approach are detrimental to constructive criticism.

Criticize the work, not the person. If a person's behavior is to be criticized, do only that and avoid blaming the person for other things. It is not right to get personal while criticizing. It becomes heartbreaking for the person accepting it and can spoil the relations between the critic and the criticized. Invite discussion rather than offering advise and keep the criticism open for two-way dialog. Emphasize on the present times rather than giving references of the past. Even if it's constructive criticism, but do not overdo it.

It is absolutely necessary for you to be prepared for accepting criticism. Your right to criticize implies the fact that you can be criticized some day. Learn to be sportive enough to receive criticism from others. If you think your constructive criticism was of any help to anyone, do not forget that someone's constructive criticism may also help you. When it comes to criticism, many try to resist it. Most of us hate being criticized. We think of criticism as something that attacks our self-esteem. However, the truth is that constructive criticism can help us know our shortcomings. It can help us get the exact picture of our strengths and weaknesses.

Parents and teachers often take to constructive criticism to help their children or students improve. Imagine never being criticized by an elder. Think of your life without that element of criticism? How would it have been? Would you have become what you are today? Would you have been able to work on your weaknesses if you were never made aware of them? Would you be able to correct your flaws if no one would have ever pointed them out to you? I am sure none of us would have achieved what we have, without facing criticism. If not for constructive criticism that made us understand ourselves, I don't think anyone of us would have been able to correct our mistakes.

So the next time you are criticized for something, do not feel discouraged. Be grateful to your critics for their 'constructive' criticism.