How to Handle Constructive Criticism Like a Champ
Pro cheerleading is a serious job. To be one, you must train your body to be athletic and practice dancing regularly for the auditions. You also have to be judged based on your performance and open yourself to the hardest part - constructive criticism.
But why is this hard? It’s because you might feel that all your audition preparation has been undervalued as you’re being criticized. And if you think everything will be a bed of roses after the auditions, there are still coaches and squad captains in rehearsals to deal with as a squad member.
Not only that, but you’ll also have fans, friends, haters, and internet trolls who will criticize you outside the arena. How should you deal with this stress and pressure? Read on below.
1. Understand the critic’s point of view
People will criticize you mostly because they want to see you do better. They may not want to confront you because they’re afraid of hurting you but they feel the necessity. It’s already hard for them to be straight so don’t make it more difficult. Listen with patience and respect.
2. Stop your first reaction
Humans are rational. But we can still be prone to reacting out on impulse and emotion. Most of the time we even make reactions that we’re sure to regret later on. Clench your fist or take a deep breath if you’re receiving constructive criticism. Don’t even roll your eyes or show an annoyed face.
3. Don’t take it personally
At times you may feel that you’re being criticized just because people want to hurt your feelings. While this may be true for your haters and internet trolls, it isn’t the case for authority figures like your coach, squad captain, and audition judges. Think of everything as part of the pro cheer career.
4. Don’t be defensive
A defensive reaction made without any intention of attack from your critic could make things worse. Unless you’re being discriminated against, verbally attacked, or berated, it’s best not to react. Your time to explain will come later or you can decide not to talk at all.
5. Consider the source
Criticism from people who know what they’re talking about should be listened to. But if somebody else without experience in pro cheerleading starts to tell you how you should do things, ignore them. You can still listen if you want, for they might provide some small insights.
6. Think about the benefits
The benefits of constructive criticism are meant to improve your skills as a professional. In this case, a dancer and representative of your NFL or NBA team. It also opens your mind to things about being a pro cheerleader you’ve never heard about. Remember these points well.
7. Ask questions if you have to
After being constructively criticized, you might want to clarify some things. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. This will show that you’ve been listening properly as well as you being open to improvement. In audition scenarios, this can turn the tide of judging you from being on the verge of rejection to being accepted for your professionalism.
After you’ve been showered with feedback and actionable suggestions for improvement, never forget to thank your critics for the insights they’ve shared. A true pro cheerleading champ is a woman who can use stress and pressure from challenges to produce extraordinary results in her career.
Learn more about what it takes to be the best cheerleader here!
- 9 Everyday Habits to Improve Your Public Speaking Skills
- What I Wish I Knew Before: 7 Audition Mistakes to Avoid
- Showmanship: What It Is and Tips from the Pros
- 6 Tips On Balancing Work, Life, and Pro Cheerleading
- How To Have An Open Mind To Be Successful At Pro Cheerleading
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