Ep 98: The Benefits of Criticism

Today I want to chat about something that is difficult for everyone, including myself, but is something, I feel that helps mold us into better teachers and better humans overall and that is criticism. 

A few weeks ago, I had my phone in my hand when a review of my Facebook Page came in. It was 5 stars and that made me smile but as I began to read it, that smile quickly faded.

The review said…

“I highly recommend the website for resources for paraprofessionals. However, I would not recommend the podcast. The host spends a lot of time down playing the role of a para, and telling how she believes her role is superior to the role of a para. I would not want to be a para working alongside this host in a classroom setting.”

I’m not going to lie…that stung a bit. I have always considered myself an advocate FOR paraprofessionals…someone who fights for their equality…someone who works hard to make them feel seen and heard. Heck I even spoke to the Kansas State Legislature about the importance of paying paraprofessionals more. So to hear that my words are not conveying that message was upsetting.

Now, I share this story with you for a reason. As a teacher (just like every other profession), you will be critiqued at some point in your career and there are a whole bunch of different emotions people feel when they are criticized. But I want you to know that being criticized, even though it’s hard, it can often be very useful to help you grow or improve something you do.

Today's episode goes through 6 ways  of how to let criticism benefit you.

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