Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for an Opinion…BUT

chatI recently redesigned this blog and asked for your thoughts about it in my last post. If I was the way I was in high school, boy – would I be livid! Let me explain…

When I was a little boy (yes, I was still a little boy in high school. I finally reached 100lbs. my junior year), I didn’t take criticism very well. I think this is why I tried to be the best at everything, because if I was the best, no one could really say anything.When someone did say something, I would become really defensive and not handle the situation very well.

Luckily, since then, I’ve changed. I love criticism.

Free Advice

I see criticism as free advice. No matter how harsh or negative it is it’s someone opinion about what I’m doing. That opinion doesn’t become a seed for guilt or anger, it becomes a way to see how I can improve, for free. And the best part, it’s related to whatever it is I’m doing. I don’t have to read a book, take a class or try to figure out what I’m doing wrong – since it’s directly pointed out to me.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

If there’s something you want to be successful at, you should always ask for an opinion. Whether it’s a website design, a blog post, marketing plan, or even an idea – knowing what other people think about it will help you improve and succeed.

This doesn’t have to apply to just internet business either. If you want to succeed in a relationship, buying a home, cooking dinner – all you have to do is ask. Never just assume.

What’s the Worst that Can Happen?

This is the question that changed my view about criticism. Even though I was criticized for many things throughout my life (who hasn’t), the fact is that I’m here today – happy, healthy and successful. If you’re worried about what people think, just ask yourself, “What’s the worst that can happen?”.

So you might get some negative opinions. Now you know what to do and how to improve. Like I said before, that information is gold.

You Don’t Have to You Can’t Please Everybody

The theme of this post is that other people’s opinions are valuable. However, you have to understand that you don’t have to please everyone, because you can’t.

If you tried to conform to every single opinion and criticism that was directed towards you, you’d be running around like a chicken with no head because everyone’s opinions are different. You have to learn how to understand which opinions fit your ideas and proceed by making changes and updates accordingly.

My New Blog Design

So, taking all of what I previously said into account, I just wanted to thank you all for your opinions in my last post. I got some nice ones, and some critical ones too – which is awesome. I’ve since “compromised” on a few items, such as putting back the “about me” part in the sidebar, because it’s what really gave new visitors that first impression about what I do.

What’s most important is to consider who your audience is and try to balance their opinions with your goals.

Up Next

I hope you’re ready for the next post. I’ll be talking about something that will change my life forever…

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DDFD at DivorcedDadFrugalDad.com June 10, 2009 at 4:22 am

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Pat as you get older, you will find you are more willing to listen to the ideas of others and more willing to shrug it off if you don’t agree . . .

Change your life forever . . . if you are going to announce your about to be a father– brother, you have no idea!

Michael June 10, 2009 at 9:57 pm

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I have to admit, this was my first thought after reading this post as well. Can’t wait to read what the life change event is…no matter what it might be.

Sonny June 10, 2009 at 8:56 am

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When I read the title of the post, I thought to myself “oh no, he took my comment the wrong way”. After reading your post, I’m glad you realized that we readers are not looking to get you but just give you our opinions to make your site better. At the end of the day, its always your call (and you normally make the right one). By the way, I love that you put back your name tag at the top of the page. I think it adds a cool personal touch. Thanks for all the info!

Sarah H. June 10, 2009 at 9:04 am

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Good attitude Pat!

debtor June 10, 2009 at 3:25 pm

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I agree, I love when people comment on my blog even if I don’t agree. I take comments as a way to see different viewpoints and pick mine with all that knowledge…

Enrique S June 11, 2009 at 12:11 pm

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As I’ve gotten older, I’ve developed a thick skin. I don’t let criticism get to me, either. You have a healthy attitude, Pat. Can’t wait to hear the announcement.

Kevin December 31, 2009 at 2:15 pm

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Some great advice. I think most people forget who the “customer” is and without them there would be no need for us.

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