Because of things like social media, it is easier than ever for folks to express their opinions. Whether they share a piece of content with a controversial overtone, write a post on a hot topic, or make a comment on someone else’s post, everywhere you look, there are “experts”, “encouragers”, “over-commenters”, “stalkers” and even, “naysayers.”
I will be honest, I’m a sharer. I share my life (with whoever will listen). I share my favorite recipes, household products, books and vacation spots. I share my stuff – my house, my resources, my blessings. And I share on social media.
If people are annoyed with how much I share, I trust they will not follow me, or decide to hide my posts in their news feed. And I’m ok with that. But let’s be honest, I’m a professional speaker and writer.
I share for a living.
So whether you agree with my stance or not, I will continue to share because it’s not only part and parcel to my profession, but it’s also exactly how God wired me! Social media, my blog and my speaking platform just give me more outlets than in the past.
In light of this public exposure, I will be faced with people who disagree (and say so!) with my views, decisions and perhaps how much or what I share. Although I know this to be true, and even try to prepare for it, it never feels great when it actually happens.
Case in point, last week my husband and I decided to fly to Indianapolis on short notice to see our beloved Wisconsin Badgers play in the NCAA Basketball National Championships! Did I mention, our team hasn’t won that title since 1941? (Yeah, that’s over 70 years if you need help with the math.)
So, after tongue-in-cheek telling our friends we’d almost pulled the trigger on going, at the urging (and applause!) of the whole table we literally ditched in the middle of Easter brunch to head home, pack our bags and get on that darn plane to go see our BADGERS!
Although we didn’t win, it was worth every penny. And even the harsh criticism I faced on social media for making that choice couldn’t make me change my mind.
I’d do it All. Over. Again.
So why do people think it’s their business to openly criticize my decision to spend my money to go to a basketball game? I don’t know.
Maybe just because they can.
What I do know, is that it wouldn’t have happened before the age of social media.
But I have to say, as much as the criticism hurt, I realize it’s part of our new reality in this day and age, whether you are a public figure or just an individual who shares anything about their life online.
When we are criticized, no matter if it’s on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram or in the privacy of our own home, we are faced with a decision. How will we respond?
I believe we can process criticism in a healthy way, and find our way to the other side.
Last week, after the last-minute trek to Indianapolis and the Facebook comment controversy, I was hosting my monthly lunch hour presentation, and I spoke on this subject. The podcast recording is below in which I share 3 steps to process criticism in a healthy way.
If you’ve ever faced criticism, harsh words or unpopular “feedback” from someone, I think it would be worth your while to listen in.
You can also listen on iTunes or subscribe to my podcast there.
[reminder]What ways have you found to handle criticism in a healthy way?[/reminder]Podcast notes:
Step 1: Consider the source
Step 2: Consider the truth
Step 3: Consider the end game.
a) Grace
b) Conviction
c) Forgiveness