[Guest Post by Ron Dawson]

I have to admit that I hate it when people criticize me. Oh, don't get me wrong. I can handle it. I've a pretty thick skin. You have to have one in this business. But, nonetheless, if I'm criticized, it bothers me. But, I have yet to meet a creative artist who doesn't get even a little irked when criticized (whether or not they show it).

I think it pretty much is expected that if you're going to be a filmmaker, you're going to be criticized. At some point down the road someone who thinks they know more than you (whether or not they actually do know more than you), will tell you what's wrong with your work. Heck, it may be ME telling you what's wrong with it. In any case, you need to be ready, willing and able to handle the criticism when it inevitably comes. Here's how I personally handle it. Just remember to be H.O.P.E.F.U.L.

Humility

If you have a sincerely humble spirit, not thinking yourself better than anyone else, and not getting a big head even if most people think you are a genius, you'll handle criticism much better.

Openness

Be open to new ways of looking at the world and your art. Someone may offer a way of doing something that varies differently from how you do it. Be willing to listen and try new things.

Perspective

Go into all of your productions with the proper perspective. Sometimes criticism you receive is due to the fact that the person giving it is not the intended audience, so maybe they just don't get it. That's okay. Also, remember, it's not a cure for cancer you're creating here.

Education

Always think of yourself as a student of your craft. You're never too old or too experienced to learn something new. Take critiques and criticism as lessons in the ongoing education in your craft.

Focus

Stay focused on the mission at hand. Don’t let criticism or critiques derail you from the bigger picture.

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Sorry, I couldn’t think up a word for “U.”

Laughter

Lastly, be willing to laugh at yourself. You gotta have a sense of humor in this business if you want to stay sane. The more you can laugh at yourself, the less bothered you will be when others laugh at you too.

These characteristics work for me, and hopeful-ly they will for you too.