Author Name: Deep Bright

Research initiated by our firm, Bright Learning Enterprises, in a national study conducted between 2003 and 2001 yielded some important findings regarding the relationship between stress and criticism. These findings were compiled and formed into a work-related study called the “Performance Improvement Strategies Study and Program.” The goal was to understand the power of criticism and how individuals can best use criticism to effect positive change. The skills in this study were shown to produce consistent positive results among study participants. I also conducted other national studies on criticism with the Simons Center for Market Research, which led me to author two books on criticism. I now travel worldwide on the subject and have designed certified training programs for some of the most prestigious organizations in the United States. Rather than calling myself an executive coach or consultant, I jokingly refer to myself as the “criticism guru.” Although I never had the luxury of being an Olympic champion, as mentioned above, I did gain valuable experience with the three Rs of criticism: giving criticism, receiving criticism, and the silent killer: self-criticism. The results of a Performance Improvement Strategies study found that receiving and giving criticism ranked among the top ten stressful workplace challenges, and when people were asked about this, most said they didn't handle criticism well. What about you? Can you remember the last time you received criticism from your boss, your partner, your friend, or perhaps your children? How did you react? Were you emotional, resentful, or even angry? When it comes to criticism, the truth is that it only takes a few words, or perhaps even a disapproving look, to trigger a crisis that can jeopardize or destroy an important relationship over time. In fact, my research has shown that criticism, of all forms of communication, has the most lethal ability to destroy relationships. Despite our strong desire to avoid criticism, we don't find it; it is an inevitable part of our lives. If we aspire to succeed as parents, employees, leaders, or athletes, it is essential that we learn how to handle criticism in both its aspects: as the giver and the recipient.