I had a moment the other day where I was called into a meeting. Given the context, I was about to hear some feedback and criticism.
At first, my stomach dropped. I started thinking of excuses. “I didn’t know how to do it.” “That person told me to do it this way.” etc…
Then I reframed it as an opportunity to learn. I appreciated that there is so much to discover and I can’t possibly know everything right now. That tiny shift in thinking helped me go into the meeting and be open to feedback. Then, when it came, I expected it and ran towards more specific and actionable ideas, rather than getting defensive.
Next time you’re about to receive some criticism, take a moment to be grateful for the opportunity and the learning. It’s a gift.