You’re facing harsh criticism. How can you maintain your confidence?

2 Evaluate the source and the intention

Not all criticism is created equal. Some people may have a genuine interest in helping you improve your work, while others may have ulterior motives, such as jealousy, competition, or personal bias. Before you take any criticism to heart, consider the source and the intention behind it. Is the person qualified to give you feedback? Do they have relevant experience or expertise in fashion design? Do they have a clear and constructive way of communicating their points? Do they respect your style and vision? If the answer is yes, then you may want to listen and learn from their criticism. If the answer is no, then you may want to ignore or dismiss their criticism.

3 Focus on the facts and the solutions

Criticism can be subjective or objective, depending on how it's based on facts or opinions. Subjective criticism can be influenced by personal preferences, tastes, or expectations, while objective criticism can be supported by evidence, standards, or criteria. When you receive criticism, try to focus on the facts and the solutions, rather than the opinions and the problems. For example, if someone says that your design is too boring, that's a subjective opinion that may not reflect the reality of your work. But if someone says that your design doesn't fit the brief, the target market, or the current trends, that's an objective fact that you can verify and address. Ask for specific examples, suggestions, or feedback that can help you improve your work, rather than vague or general comments that can make you feel insecure or confused.

4 Learn from your mistakes and celebrate your achievements

Criticism can be a valuable opportunity to learn from your mistakes and grow as a designer. Instead of seeing it as a personal attack or a failure, see it as a chance to improve your skills, knowledge, and creativity. Take responsibility for your work and embrace the challenge of overcoming your weaknesses and gaps. Seek feedback from trusted mentors, colleagues, or friends who can support you and guide you. And don't forget to celebrate your achievements and strengths as well. Recognize your progress and accomplishments, and reward yourself for your hard work and dedication. Remember that no one is perfect, and that every designer has faced criticism at some point in their career.

5 Keep your perspective and your passion

Criticism can be helpful or harmful, depending on how you perceive it and respond to it. But ultimately, it's not the only thing that defines you or your work. Keep your perspective and your passion, and don't let criticism stop you from pursuing your dreams and goals. Remember that you are more than your work, and that your work is more than the criticism it receives. Remember that you have a unique and valuable voice as a designer, and that you have something to offer to the world. Remember that you love what you do, and that you do it for yourself and your audience, not for the critics. And remember that criticism is not the end, but the beginning of a new opportunity to grow and shine.