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Criticism Quote by Brené Brown

“I only accept and pay attention to feedback from people who are also in the arena. If you're occasionally getting your butt kicked as you respond, and if you're also figuring out how to stay open to feedback without getting pummeled by insults, I'm more likely to pay attention to your thought…” quote by Brené Brown
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““I only accept and pay attention to feedback from people who are also in the arena. If you're occasionally getting your butt kicked as you respond, and if you're also figuring out how to stay open to feedback without getting pummeled by insults, I'm more likely to pay attention to your thought about my work. If, on the other hand, you're not helping, contributing, or wrestling with your own gremlins, I'm not at all interested in your commentary.””

Brené Brown

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Power of Vulnerability, 2018

Feedback is valuable only when it comes from peers actively engaged in the same challenges, not from detached observers.

In simple terms: Only feedback from fellow participants matters.

Key Takeaway

Seek input from those sharing your struggles.

Themes

feedback vulnerability growth collaboration

Mood

reflective encouraging

Type

self‑help motivational

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • coaching sessions
  • creative workshops
  • online forums

Key Concepts

peer review psychological safety

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who can you trust for honest feedback?
  • How do you handle criticism from outsiders?
A Different Perspective

Critics may still offer useful perspectives despite not being in the arena.

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