Curiosity: Why does criticism hurt us?

Curiosity: Why does criticism hurt us?

Criticism can hit us deeply. Why is that and what can we do about it? Find out more.

Curiosity is a powerful engine of personal development. If we reflect on why criticism affects us so much, we can uncover our inner fears and insecurities. Instead of defending ourselves, we can ask ourselves what this feedback teaches us. This process allows us to better understand ourselves and our emotional reactions. Transforming criticism into curiosity can unlock new possibilities and lead us to positive changes in our lives.

Interested in this topic? Read more: Managing Pressure: How to Use Criticism and Feedback for Growth Want to find out where you stand personally? Take a short test at the end of the page and gain a better understanding.

How does this apply to you? Choose the answers that describe you best:

Imagine that you get the chance to start over in a completely new field. What is your first reaction?

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How do you react when you encounter an obstacle on the road to your goal?

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What thought most often drives you to get up and start the day in the morning?

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When you succeed in achieving something that was important to you, what will you do first?

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Imagine that you are working on an important project, but an offer for something new and unfamiliar comes up. How do you decide?

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When you observe the successes of other people, what feelings prevail within you?

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If you had the chance to meet your future successful self in ten years, what would you ask them?

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When you feel that you're lacking motivation, how do you cope with it?

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Imagine that you had the opportunity to live a life completely free of obligations and commitments. How would you perceive it?

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If you had to define your main source of motivation, what would it be?

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Intrinsic motivation

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