The Lost Art of Critique

ever notice how hard it is to deliver a critique to someone? defensive behavior. excuses. a number of indirect reactions to a direct attempt at making something more powerful. you don’t have to be the muppets critics to get this either. you could be the softest-spoken, most well-meaning individual this side of mars. i’m especially blown away in those cases where the commentary and/or suggestions being offered are through a “warm” channel, ie. where a critique has been scheduled, or where the feedback would be theoretically appropriate (like between friends or between teammates). we learn from considering and assuming the perspective of another. we learn from failure. these places are difficult to visit and endure — but few things in life that are worth having come easy. i can’t speak for others, but i’ll always elect to receive information that helps me to grow in my work before hearing people telling me how nice and great everything is. a true optimist can take the heat and honesty. they don’t need to be surrounded by positive vibes to remain positive. it’s all in his/her management of it and where s/he heads beyond the critical moments that defines the outlook.