Constructive Criticism Makes Us Stronger: The Gift of Suggested Edits
When I sent the “final” draft of my book to beta readers, I was secretly hoping for a pat on the back and a green light to publish. No typos, no rewording, no missing sections. Just done.
Of course, that’s not what happened.
My readers came back with pages of feedback: sections to expand, parts to reorganize, grammar tweaks, even whole new topics to consider. (One suggestion introduced me to ADA-compliant colors in branding – something I’d never heard of before! I did some research and added a footnote on it – and learned something in the process!).
In the moment, I was frustrated. I thought, “I’ve already put so much time into this – now I have to do more? I thought I was finished!”
But when I stepped back and took their edits seriously, something happened. The book got better. A lot better. Their insights made the final product stronger, clearer, and more valuable for the readers I wanted to reach.
And here’s the bigger lesson: “suggested edits” aren’t just for writing. They show up everywhere – in our careers, in our nonprofits, in our relationships.
A board member may suggest a new way to handle committee updates.
A volunteer may point out a more efficient process for intake forms.
A mentor may challenge you to rethink your leadership style.
Your partner may recommend that you sleep on that irate email you just drafted before sending it.
Our instinct is often to resist. After all, change is uncomfortable, and it can feel like criticism. But if we pause, consider the feedback honestly, and make adjustments where it makes sense, we often find ourselves – and our organizations – moving forward in ways we couldn’t have imagined on our own.
The best edits (or constructive criticisms) aren’t about pointing out what’s “wrong.” They’re about showing us how good can become great.
Next time someone offers you a “suggested edit,” don’t dismiss it. Sit with it. Consider it. And ask yourself: Could this make my work – or my organization – stronger?
Until next time, keep leading with passion and purpose. 💌 Have a question or want to share your thoughts? Email me at [email protected] — I’d love to hear from you.
