How to (Gracefully) Manage Your Critics  Many of us have an
innate reflex to please everyone. It is a curious and burdensome
responsibility that we have assumed since childhood. As creative
leaders, the need to address critics is a reflex that is liable
to override other more important uses of our energy. While we
carefully weigh the costs and benefits of most decisions we
make, criticism has the tendency to lead us astray. Of course,
criticism is important. Early detection of disappointment or
misunderstandings can save us a whole lot of turmoil further
down the line.  But, oftentimes, our efforts to address our
critics become an obsession. Even worse, our efforts can
backfire by fanning the flames. A single harsh comment on a
bulletin board can turn into an aggressive and insulting
exchange that is not constructive but still liable to keep you
up at night. For this reason, many prominent bloggers and
companies have removed comment boards altogether.Don’t cut off
your critics. Feedback helps us correct our c