The majority of us have found it hard to handle criticism assertively in our lives, but once you're equipped with the correct assertiveness techniques criticism becomes far easier to deal with. Criticism in itself is not always detrimental, because it can include helpful advice that we can potentially learn and develop from. Having said that, at times criticism can be harmful if it is false or when it's delivered badly. 3 Assertiveness Tips To Deal With Criticism Typically, a lot of people don't cope with criticism very well. They often get mad and aggressive towards the individual criticizing them or they simply run away. Regardless, these aren't healthy responses to criticism. Here are several helpful assertiveness techniques to contend with criticism: 1. Negative Inquiry Negative inquiry consists of discreetly challenging the criticism by questioning it. E.g.: Criticism: “You're not carrying out your responsibilities well.” Reply: “How specifically do you think I am not performing my work adequately?” By employing negative inquiry, it is possible to clear up a vague criticism and transform it into something clear that you're able to either take on board and improve yourself from or just reject. 2. Fogging Fogging means picking up a little aspect of the criticism that you accept and utilizing it to be a basis to defend yourself. To illustrate: Criticism: “You're out of work, and you are totally wasting your life." Reply: “Yes, I’m without a job, but…” When you use the fogging method, you reduce the potency of the criticism and afford yourself the opportunity to provide an contrasting justification. 3. Disagreement Lastly, if there is simply nothing good that you are able to take away from the criticism, or if it's just incorrect, it's your perogative to reject it. A good way to disagree with a criticism without being perceived as aggressive is to question its assumptions. To illustrate: Criticism: “You never do anything around the house, and all you do is watch television all the time.” Reply: “That's far from the truth. It might seem like I watch TV the majority of the night but I do a great deal around the house too, for example taking out the rubbish, cleaning the yard and doing the dishes.” Ultimately, keep in mind that you don't have to take any criticism if you don't wish to, particularly if it's destructive and comes from somebody who doesn't have your best interests at heart. You can get more assertiveness techniques to help you deal with criticism assertively by visiting AssertivenessTrainingAcademy.com. It's the ultimate resource for assertiveness training, especially the latest post on dealing with difficult people at work.
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