>> Criticism From Others

Few people enjoy receiving criticism, but participants (as well as experts in this field) agree that everyone can lessen its sting. They recommend:
Consider the source. Is this a person whose opinion you respect? Is the intent to help you improve, or just to make you feel like a bum? Is the critic knowledgeable about the topic he or she is criticizing you on?
Take a deep breath (close your mouth, breath through your nose, and relax your throat and neck muscles). Until you get control of yourself, you can't even hear what the person is saying.
Step out of the situation and act as an observer. Think, "Hmmm, this is interesting. I wonder what's motivating this person."
Listen. It's hard to listen well when someone makes a critical comment, but try. Ask questions that ensure you understand what the person is saying.
If you think the criticism has at least some value, decide what action you need to take now or the next time the situation arises.
Try not to take it too personally: consider the action required, not the actor.