Wingbeats

Within the Wingbeats community, we will always aim to cultivate an environment that allows comfortable, open dialogue between members. In our team, we highly value feedback that identifies areas for improvement and suggests potential enhancements - your input is a crucial part of our workflow and we view constructive criticism as essential for growth. However, it is important to set guidelines and distinguish between constructive and destructive criticism.

Constructive criticism is conveyed with a compassionate and helpful demeanor, providing specific and actionable suggestions, solutions, or improvement tips. It is centered on weaknesses and strengths within our team or project.

Example of Constructive Criticism wrote:

"The collaborative project is promising, but assigning specific roles to team members could streamline the workflow and avoid confusion."
"I like your painting, especially the use of colors. Adding more texture to certain areas could make it even more visually captivating."
"Your article is well-written. Including more real-life examples could make it more relatable and enhance the impact of your message."
"Your singing voice has potential. Practicing breath control techniques could help you sustain notes longer."
"Your presentation was well-organized and informative. Adding more visuals could further engage the audience."

In contrast, destructive criticism is hurtful and derogatory - aiming to bash failures, undermine successes, and evoke negative reactions. It lacks specificity and fails to offer constructive feedback or actionable suggestions. It resorts to personal attacks rather than addressing elements of the project.

Example of Destructive Criticism wrote:

"Working with this team is a nightmare. No wonder everything is falling apart. I'm not wasting any more time on this project."
"Your painting is terrible. The colors are all wrong, and it looks like a child did it. I can't believe you even consider yourself an artist."
"Your article is garbage. I couldn't even finish reading it. You clearly have no idea what you're talking about."
"Your singing is awful. You should just give up; you'll never be any good."
"Your presentation was boring. Nobody cared about what you were saying."

Tips to avoid accidentally giving destructive criticism

• Criticism should address specific behaviors, actions, or aspects that need improvement.

• It should be balanced and include both positive and negative feedback.

• Avoid making personal attacks, insults, or judgments.

• Use "I" statements to make it less confrontational.

• Offer suggestions and alternatives.

Please be aware that we have a zero-tolerance policy for destructive criticism in any shape or form. While we understand passion and frustration may lead to such feedback, we must stress the importance of mental health and we expect you to step away until you can provide constructive criticism. Any attempts to damage someone's reputation, prestige, or self-esteem will result in consequences against your account. Any feedback deemed destructive in nature will not be displayed, addressed, or acknowledged. The people you are talking to are real, genuine people and negative feedback that is destructive in nature may result in enduring psychological effects, contributing to feelings of anxiety, depression, and a diminished self-image.

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