Can You Handle Criticism?

If you can’t handle criticism you might want to consider a change of occupations. In youth ministry, as in any other occupation, criticism can occur. It is normal and often expected but it still could hit you from the “blind” side if you are not prepared. Often, it catches you by surprise and you are not prepared for what is about to occur. When this happens you seem to become defensive and wear your feelings on your shoulders for a while.

Often, people really do not believe they are being critical, they really think they are helping. It could be the way they present it or the way you receive it. What ever the case, let’s be careful how we handle criticism.

What are some reasons for criticism?
• Someone may think you are closer to the youth than you need to be. They may be threatened by your relationship with their teen.
• Some may look at other youth ministries and compare what you are doing.
• It could be that you have a problem with the way you handle money and someone lets you know about it.
• A person older may criticize a younger youth minister, thinking they are immature.
• Maybe you’ve heard this one. “You are not in the entertainment business you are in the Bible business.”
• Here’s one. “When is the group going to do more service projects, we seem to be lacking in that area?”
• “I know my son didn’t sign-up on time but he still needs to go.”

Don’t feel threatened when the comments are made. Make a mental or written note and thank the person for their help. You might even want to follow up the conversation with a note to the person thanking them for their encouragement and suggestions.

Keep in mind that most people are really trying to help and don’t mean to be critical. They think they are making constructive suggestions but they might not know how to verbalize it.

Take their suggestions, love them, and keep on ministering. Don’t let it get you down; it could be Satan at work.

Article Source: http://youth-ministry-resources.com

Al Millergren, co-founder of Teen Life Ministries: www.teenlifeministries.com

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