Ready, Set, Grow!
Gary McIntosh
Deal With Criticism
March 19th, 2024
Ready — Robert Knegel in his book, If It Ain’t Broke? Break It!, shares, “Pardon the grammar, but if it ain’t broke today, it will be tomorrow. Today’s innovations are tomorrow’s antiques.” That’s easy for a businessman to say, but leaders of non-profits must handle the criticism which results from “breaking” old forms in order to use new ones.
Set — Consider three pieces of information.
Realize that criticism is inevitable. Any movement produces friction. Since change requires movement, leaders must expect to be criticized. Criticism will come through email, in the hallways, via phone calls, and conversations. Be ready for it.
Realize that some people receive more criticism than others. Generally, the more responsibility one has the greater the exposure to criticism. The Law of the Whale always holds true, i.e., when you rise to the top and blow, you get harpooned!
Realize that leaders are magnets for criticism. They give answers, appear strong, and create change. All such activities bring criticism from those who disagree.
Grow! — Winston Churchill said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.” The Bible says, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (1 For. 15:58). Leading always invites criticism. Expect it! Face it! Move through it!