Should You Avoid Criticism?

Should You Avoid Criticism?

by Scott Harper

“If you are not criticized, you may not be doing much.”

Donald Rumsfeld

May 6, 2026

Are you a leader who wants everyone to love you all the time?

It sure would be great to be everyone’s best friend, hero, mentor, and Favorite. Boss. Ever.

I’d much rather be complimented than condemned. The last time I was criticized—which wasn’t that long ago—it didn’t feel too good.

I’ve got some bad news and worse news for you:

Bad news: Not hearing criticism doesn’t mean you’re not being criticized.

Worse news: As a leader, if subpar performers aren’t occasionally critical of you, chances are your all-stars will eventually turn against you.

Leading to avoid criticism is fearful and selfish.

Leading to provoke criticism is rude and being a jerk.

Criticism isn’t the best gauge for a leader, but resistance doesn’t always mean you’re doing something wrong. Growth is often uncomfortable.

To help others be their best, great leaders receive a healthy balance of criticism and compliments. Setting an expectation without accountability is only a suggestion. When holding others accountable, leaders should expect occasional pushback.

Now for the good news: When you experience criticism, you can choose to evaluate it. Admit what’s warranted and adjust where necessary.

Lead. Learn. Grow.

SHARPER LEADER:

1. Do you avoid being criticized?

Action Step: Identify an area where you avoid someone’s complaint rather than focusing on their growth or the organization's success.

2. From which direction do you receive the most complaints?

Action Step: Identify complaints from below, alongside, or above you. Determine which are warranted and which are unjust. Begin adjusting where appropriate.

3. People will complain. Who would you rather complain about you?

Action Step: Consider whether complaints come mostly from those making things better—or worse.