Handling Negativity

Last week’s blog was about criticism and how it isn’t always a negative thing. It ended with critics who intentionally criticize rather than critique.  How is this type of criticism to be handled?

First and foremost, staying calm is important. You may find when you are met with criticism, your initial reaction is anger. The Bible says in Psalms 37:8 KJV, “Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.” In Proverbs 14:29 KJV, the Bible instructs, “He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.”

Why are we not to give in to anger?  James 1:20 KJV gives the answer: “For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” Therefore, if you express anger, it isn’t going to help the situation. In fact, it could work in your critic’s favor! Ceasing from anger gives you the ability to fully understand where the criticism is coming from and enables you to deal with it much better.

Overall, criticism is never easy to deal with. However, it isn’t always meant as a negative. Some criticism can help you to grow and become more like Christ. So, don’t be quick to dismiss any criticism thrown your way. Think about it with the mind of Christ and decide whether there is something to be learned. After all, the Bible says in Proverbs 9:9 KJV, “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” Every day, we are given the opportunity to learn something. Are you willing to learn what God may be teaching you?

If the problems are coming from your boss, try to get to the bottom of where the feedback is coming from. If you feel it is still unjust, ask to speak to somebody higher up in the company. Sometimes we need an outsider’s view to see what is really happening without emotions being involved. Next week, I’ll give some tips on how to handle negativity in the workplace.

If you’d like to learn how to handle criticism in a Christ-honoring way, BOOK NOW a free meeting at christianlifecoachtools.com today!