why criticism feels so personal

Send us Fan Mail Welcome back to The Girls Classroom. Let me know your feedback on the latest episodes in the Q&A or via our email. Our brains read criticism as a threat, our identity takes it personally, and old wounds can make small comments feel huge. This episode is about why feedback stings so much, and how to receive it without shrinking. • Criticism triggers a threat response in our amygdala • We tie performance to identity, so “this needs work” can sound like “you’re not enough” • Past experiences and upbringing shape our sensitivity (harsh comparison, conditional praise, public call-outs) • Negativity bias makes one harsh comment outweigh ten compliments • Personality patterns (perfectionist, people-pleaser, highly sensitive, anxious) amplify reactions • Common reactions: defensiveness, shame spirals, anger, withdrawal, over-apologising • What helps: pause, ask for specifics, separate you from your work, and check the giver’s intent Support the show Text someone right now and share this episode if you found it helpful. If you'd like advice or want your problem featured anonymously in a future episode, message us on Instagram (thegirlsclassroom) or email [email protected]. Download this episode! Preferred audio: x1 speed our main page: https://thegirlsclassroom.buzzsprout.com follow at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2047997/share