Remember the 20% Rule.

To share, to grow, to get better, and to start getting success means you’ll also start getting some univited guests: Trolls, negative people, and strange comments.

The most unexpected part of this? Trolls are markers of success. No success, no trolls. If you weren’t having success, they never would’ve found you.

Ok, but that still doesn’t make it easy. I’d like to say “ignore the critics,” but I think it’s more helpful to give tools, strategies and perspectives on “dealing with criticism” when it inevevitably happens. Besides trolls, negative comments, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Probably my favorite that I’ve heard, and always keep in mind: Don’t feed the trolls. Don’t reply to their comments. They’re not actually trying to help you, your community, or to make the world a better place. This is in stark contrast to suggestions or comments from well-meaning people who want to be constructive and helpful. Spend your precious time and energy on those people instead.
• Remember that “Hurt people hurt people.” When you’re out there sharing things, you’re putting yourself out there in a way that few people do. You’re more in public. And with that comes all types. Remember that for negative people and comments, it’s likely coming from a place of pain, weakness, and/or immaturity. Remember that they’re people too. There are people with mental issues. There are people who haven’t yet taken the opportunity to mature. It may be difficult, but ask yourself if you can find some sympathy.
• Gratitude. Being thankful for being on your side of the table. Having the ability and the courage to shrae consistntly. To risk the ups and downs and all that comes with it. Thank goodness you’ve had your experience, and are currently on yoru way to success. Could you imagine being on their side of the table instead?
• A short thank you to your critics. They’re helping you gain a thicker skin, and even to grow. They’re showing you that you have hte ability and courage to keep sharing depiste the obstacles. Isn’t that an amazing thing? in their own way. (insert tea example).