How to Handle Criticism & Keep Moving Towards Your Dream Life

If there’s one truth I’ve learned on my journey, it’s this: the moment you start moving toward a life you truly love, someone will have an opinion about it.

And that’s okay. In fact, it’s a sign you’re alive, awake, and doing something that matters.

There’s a quote I adore that captures this so beautifully:

“There is only one way to avoid criticism: do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing.”

It’s a bold reminder that the price of a meaningful life isn’t the absence of criticism - it’s the courage to keep going in spite of it.

In this recent podcast episode, I reflect on how to navigate criticism with grace, protect your energy, and stay anchored to your purpose so you can make progress - messy, imperfect, wonderful progress - toward the life of your dreams.

Why criticism is often not about you

When we hear criticism, our nervous system loves to interpret it as danger. But so often, criticism says more about the person giving it than it does about us. It can mirror their fears, limitations, or unfulfilled desires.

Seeing it that way is freeing. You’re not here to carry other people’s baggage; you’re here to live your truth.

Let criticism confirm you’re in motion

If people are noticing, it means you’ve stepped out of the “do-nothing zone.” And that is progress. Your job isn’t to avoid being seen; it’s to be seen for who you are and what you stand for.

Every brave step - publishing the post, pitching the idea, applying for the role, starting the business - moves you closer to your dream life.

Stay aligned with your values (your inner North Star)

When you’re clear on your values and your “why,” external noise fades. You can listen to feedback without being derailed by it.

Try this: before making a big decision, ask, “Is this aligned with my values?”

If yes, that’s your green light. Alignment builds resilience.

Protect your energy like it’s precious (because it is)

Not everyone gets a seat at the table of your dreams. Be discerning. Whose feedback do you invite in? Who has earned the right to influence your path?

Curate your circle and place healthy boundaries around your time, your focus, and your heart.

Progress over perfection - always

Perfection is the sneakiest form of procrastination. It keeps us polishing, tweaking, and waiting for “ready,” when the truth is… ready comes from doing.

Commit to progress. Small steps compound. Imperfect action beats perfect intention - every single time.

Five powerful insights from this episode

1. Criticism is information, not a verdict. You get to decide what is useful and what you’ll lovingly let go of.
2. Momentum matters. Being noticed means you’re moving - keep going.
3. Values anchor you. Clarity about what matters most helps you filter feedback fast.
4. Energy is a finite resource. Guard it. Choose whose voices you allow into your inner world.
5. Imperfect action builds confidence. Progress invites more progress; perfection invites delay.

Try these journal prompts this week

• Where am I holding back because I’m afraid of criticism?
• What one brave action would I take today if I wasn’t worried about what others might say?
• Which three values will guide my decisions this month?

Pop them into your journal and free-write. You’ll be amazed at what comes up when you create space for honest answers.

Build your week around what matters

Here’s a gentle invitation: choose one small, brave step today that aligns with your purpose. Send the message. Block the hour. Publish the draft. Ask for help. Book the class.

The step doesn’t need to be loud to be significant; it needs to be aligned.

And if you’re craving support to define (or refine) your purpose and build a life around it, join me inside Dream Life Coaching - our October theme is all about Living Your Purpose.

It’s a beautiful, transformative process, and I’d love to guide you through it.

Learn more here: https://www.yourdreamlifestartshere.com/course

You don’t have to be perfect to create a life you love - but you do need to be true to yourself.

Keep going. 

The world needs what only you can bring.