I recall many years ago as a newlywed, my husband told me I didn’t know how to accept a compliment. My reaction to praise was often something like, “Oh, this old thing? I bought it at the resale shop and have had it for years.” He informed me that a more appropriate response was a mere “thank you”. He was wise in many ways and had a special talent in dealing with people. As for myself, I’ve always been more of a sit back and observe type of person, a people watcher, not wanting to deal with people much at all.
As a result, I’ve noticed, just as there is a better way to accept a compliment, there is a better way to receive criticism. One has to realize that whether a critique is given from your senpai or sensei, it is a gift bestowed out of respect and a willingness to help. If we didn’t care, we would say nothing. And if not, we probably wouldn’t still be doing Kyudo.
If you’ll notice, all too often as Sensei gives a correction, students will respond with an excuse or an “I know. Blah, blah, blah.” If you already know, why are you still doing it your way? I realize that knowing in your mind and bringing the mind and body together are two different things, but still. I’m pretty sure Sensei doesn’t want to know why you aren’t making the changes, he/she wants to see the change.
Just as those many years ago when I learned there was a simple, appropriate way to accept a compliment, there is a simple and appropriate way to take constructive criticism.
Just say “thank you” ….and as Nike might add, “Just do it!”
Have you ever noticed on student and/or job evaluations there is a review of how one takes criticism?
“No. Try not. Do. Or do not. There is no try.” ~ Yoda
*Subject for another day: Dishing it Out: Customizing Critiques
Kyudo ...the road less traveled 