Ok guys, we're going to talk about a touchy subject today; constructive feedback. Whether you want to believe it or not, all feedback is valuable. It just depends on your perception. But first, we need to clear up a common misconception-- Freelance writing (especially copywriting/business writing) is not art; it's a business.

Separating you from your work

It's important to note that the work you produce is not an extension of yourself. It's merely something you created. What I mean by that is when writers (myself included) hear feedback, there's a chance they could take it personally. Starting out, I was like a leaf in the wind whenever a client "criticized" my work. I say criticize because at the time, I took it that way. By not separating my-- Taryn-- from my work, I was like an emotional rollercoaster, at the mercy of others. With that, my perception became totally skewed. …show more content…
Reality

First, I'd like to say that both logic and emotion are needed for business; and well, in life in general. One cannot dominate the other. Without logic, we become a slave to our emotions, forgetting that we can actually control our emotional response. On the flipside, without emotion, well... Jeffrey Dahmer or Ted Bundy, anyone? When taking in feedback, a balanced writer is able to table their emotions and look at their work for what it is; work.

Your editor is not out to get you

Whether you're working with the director of marketing, or an editor of a publication, whenever you receive direction or feedback, always focus on positive intent. Remember this person hired you because they believe in your writing ability. So by that logic, any feedback they give you is not to tear you down, but to make you better.

How to own constructive feedback

The next time constructive feedback has you feeling some kind of way, follow these tried and true steps to help you keep calm and carry