Critics and feedback on your work

I was in a debate the other day with a colleague regarding critics and feedback on your work. The person I was chatting to believes that critics are essential to provide brevity, markers for correction, and an alternative viewpoint for any kind of work put into the public arena. This may be true, however I think its up to us as individuals to decide whether we want to read or listen. I believe feedback is essential, and I also believe that it is up to me to choose who I engage to hear that feedback and opinion from. Most people in the world are putting themselves on the line through their work or their art etc. and that means being vulnerable. I believe it’s important to be selective with the people you choose to consult with. After all critics don’t work for the individual, they work for themselves or their publication. I think its important to make that distinction, and consult with people who love you, have your back and do not have any invested or hidden agendas, and have only your best interests at heart.

I was thinking about all the amazing women in our community and how exposed and challenged they often feel, it may not be critics in big media publications, but it can be the gossipy neighbour or the critic on a Facebook thread. When asking for feedback or opinion, Please choose the people who you give such responsibility to carefully, I think its so important for your emotional wellbeing.

This morning I was reading a post from author Elizabeth Gilbert, who was talking about how she never reads critical reviews of her work (not ever) essentially she was saying the same thing, why would you put yourself through that when at the end of the day its someone else’s opinion who does not have your best interest at heart. I must admit I felt a little happy that an author whom I personally appreciate for her work, agreed with me and how funny we were talking about the same subject on opposite sides of the world LOL.

So I thought about some key points to consider when approaching feedback:

• Don’t share with everyone. Small intimate circles close to you who have earnt your trust.
• Remember at the end of the day – its just another’s opinion.
• Listen to your gut, Its never wrong, at the end of the day be guided by what feels right for you.

Until next week, I hope you smile and laugh LOTS

Hugs

Andy xx