The Epileptic Entrepreneur™

In business, criticism can feel discouraging, especially when you’re just starting out or putting yourself out there for the first time. However, criticism often signals that you’re on the right track. When you receive feedback—whether it’s positive or negative—it means you’re being noticed. This is one of the first signs of growth and influence.

Think about it: When you’re not doing anything or staying in your comfort zone, no one pays attention. But once you begin to take risks, challenge the norm, or offer a fresh perspective, that’s when people start reacting—both positively and negatively. Criticism is usually a reflection of the impact you’re having, even if some people don’t fully understand or agree with your approach.

Receiving criticism is a natural part of stepping into new territories. It means you’re stretching your limits, exploring uncharted waters, and, most importantly, getting recognized for it. Whether you’re starting a business, promoting a new idea, or trying something different, criticism shows that your actions are causing a shift. It means you’re influencing others—whether they’re on your side or not.

But here’s the important part: Don’t let criticism derail you. It’s easy to take it personally, but it’s important to remember that everyone faces criticism at some point. It’s a sign that you’ve reached a point where your efforts are being noticed. And being noticed is one of the first steps toward success. The key is not to be discouraged but to use it as a tool for growth. Ask yourself if there’s any truth in the feedback you’re getting. Can you learn from it? Can you improve?

At the same time, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and stay true to your vision. Not everyone will agree with you, and that’s okay. Not every business or idea will resonate with every person. What matters is that you stay focused on your goals, keep moving forward, and use criticism as fuel to push you to become better.

In fact, many of the most successful people in business have faced some of the harshest criticism along their journey. They didn’t let it stop them—instead, they used it to refine their strategies, grow stronger, and build resilience. You’ll find that as you grow, the criticism you face will become less about you personally and more about your work or ideas. It’s not always easy, but this is the reality of building something meaningful.

As you continue to develop your business or personal brand, embrace criticism for what it truly is: a sign of influence. It’s proof that you’re stepping outside the ordinary and making an impact. Keep pushing forward, continue to learn from feedback, and use every bit of criticism as an opportunity to refine your path. Every step you take, whether people agree with you or not, is a step closer to your success.