Criticism, Tantrums, and the Glow-Up of a Lifetime

By Patty Roe, Executive Director & Founder of PS Society

Criticism, Tantrums, and the Glow-Up of a Lifetime

Let’s talk about criticism.

You know, that thing people generously toss your way like a frisbee at a dog park—sometimes playful, sometimes loaded, always flying at your face. I used to duck. Now? I catch it, inspect it, and ask, “Okay… what can I learn from this?” (Usually after muttering something mildly unprintable under my breath.)

But here’s the truth: criticism, when it’s not coming from someone in a full-blown adult tantrum, is one of the greatest gifts we get on the road to becoming our best selves. It’s like a mirror that’s a little foggy and maybe has a crack or two—but still reflects something real back at you.

Don’t get me wrong—this is not a PSA for letting people walk all over you. (Absolutely not. That’s not a PS Society value. Our official stance on bullies: No, thank you. We have enough work to do.) When someone says the same thing over and over, not with care or concern, but like they’re on a weird one-person mission to shrink your spirit—that’s not criticism. That’s harassment with a Pinterest quote on top. That’s someone throwing a tantrum and calling it "honesty." And if we’re being honest? That’s just noise.

But the real stuff? The thoughtful, maybe uncomfortable, maybe annoying thing someone says once—but it hits deep? That’s where the gold is.

Think about it: every time someone gives you a piece of feedback—whether it’s about how you communicate, how you lead, how you show up—it’s like they’ve handed you a tool. You can build with it. Not a wall. Not armor. Something better. Something that elevates you and, by extension, everyone you serve, love, and build with.

At PS Society, we’re in the business of becoming. That means feedback loops. That means listening, reflecting, and yes—even changing. It also means being brave enough to say, “I hadn’t thought of that,” or “I need to sit with that,” or my personal favorite: “Yikes, okay—but I hear you.”

There’s brilliance in that. There’s power in that. Because every time you grow in response to something true—something lovingly or even awkwardly offered—you’re shaping a better future. Not just for you. For all of us.

So, the next time someone lobs a little criticism your way, try this:

1. Pause.

2. Ask yourself if it’s love or control.

3. If it’s love (or truth or insight), say thank you.

4. Use it to evolve.

5. And if it’s not? Let it go. Someone’s always going to be throwing a tantrum somewhere. That’s not your assignment.

Let’s grow wiser, louder, stronger—and yes, maybe even funnier—together.

In your corner always,

Patty Roe

Executive Director & Founder

PS Society

P.S. If you’ve been growing through it lately? Proud of you. Keep going.