How to Handle Criticism When You’re Trying to Improve
Written by Michelle Ong | November 18, 2025
When people laugh at your efforts, don’t clap back — keep growing, quietly but relentlessly.
Let’s be honest — the moment you decide to get serious about improving yourself, someone will have something to say.
Sometimes it’s subtle. Sometimes it’s sarcastic. Sometimes it’s so unnecessary you wonder if you imagined it.
And then the doubt creeps in:
Am I really cut out for this? Should I slow down? Quit? Shrink myself again?
If that sounds familiar, this one’s for you. Because here’s the truth:
There’s only one response you ever need to give haters when you’re trying to improve — you keep going.
Everything else is noise.
They Laugh, You Learn
When you’re new to something — a job, a skill, a habit, a language — you’re supposed to be bad at it.
Growth is awkward. It’s uneven. It’s not Instagram-ready.
Some people interpret ridicule as a stop sign: “They’re laughing, so I must be terrible.”
But really, they’re laughing because they’re not the ones doing the work.
They’re not taking risks. They’re not in the arena.
You are. And that already puts you ahead.
Being seen struggling isn’t failure — it’s part of the learning curve most people avoid.
That realization alone can shift how you respond to judgment.
Not Everyone Means Harm
Some people genuinely don’t realise their comments sting. They think they’re “honest,” when really they’re being careless.
But here’s the thing: you don’t need everyone’s approval.
You need your own commitment.
If someone’s words cut deeper than they intended, take a breath.
Remind yourself this journey is yours, not theirs.
You can’t control other people’s opinions, but you can control how much power you give them.
Keeping that perspective makes criticism less intimidating and helps you stay focused on growth.
Turn Criticism Into Fuel
Not all criticism is created equal.
Some of it actually helps you improve. Some of it is just noise.
I’ve learned to ask: Does this help me grow? Or is it just someone projecting their own insecurities?
If it’s helpful, keep it. If it’s not, let it bounce off.
That mental filter transforms haters’ words from distractions into motivation.
Even a sarcastic remark can become a tiny spark that reminds you: I dared to show up. They didn’t.
You Don’t Need to Be Perfect
There’s this hidden fear many of us carry: I must be perfect before anyone sees me try.
Perfection is a trap.
The more you chase it, the more you hesitate.
The more you hesitate, the less you try.
Instead, aim for excellence.
Show up consistently.
Progress matters far more than flawlessness.
Your growth isn’t measured by the absence of mistakes — it’s measured by the courage to keep going, even when the haters are laughing.
The Only Real Response
So what’s the “clapback” you really need? Simply this:
“Thanks for your opinion. I’ll be over here getting better.”
No drama. No argument.
Your progress becomes your proof.
The louder you grow, the quieter their noise becomes.
Often, those who once laughed will either ask you how you did it or fade into the background.
Staying consistent is the most effective response you’ll ever give.
Stack the Odds in Your Favor
When the noise is overwhelming, make the process enjoyable. Pair something you have to do with something you love.
- Study vocabulary while watching your favorite show.
- Work on a project while listening to music that energizes you.
- Practice a skill while sipping your favorite coffee.
When you enjoy the process, criticism matters less, motivation comes more easily, and showing up consistently feels natural.
This Is Your Journey
At the end of the day, this is your life. Your growth. Your rules.
Someone else’s laughter or critique doesn’t get to dictate your limits.
You are allowed to be a beginner.
You are allowed to be imperfect.
You are allowed to outgrow people quietly and confidently.
And the only response you ever need is to keep going.
Let your consistency, courage, and results speak for themselves.
🌱 Reader Reflection
Think about it for a moment: Whose opinion do I still take too seriously — and how could my growth change if I let it go?
