One of the major reasons competent, talented and skilled people who can make a positive difference refuse to volunteer as sport leaders is their perception of unnecessary contention, confusion and unfair criticism.

Why fear criticism? Why do so many people allow themselves to be traumatised by criticism? Criticism is nothing more than a request for feedback. No meaningful objective can be attained without criticism—just as failure is necessary to achieve sustainable success so too is criticism a necessity. There is constructive criticism that is intended to foster improvement. Then there is destructive or malicious criticism that has no positive intention. Whichever way it’s intended.

Not everyone will agree with a position that a leader will take and that’s fair enough. Not every idea or method that a leader may adopt is correct or sensible.

Even if no sincere effort is made to ascertain the correct information, no criticism should be wasted as every criticism presents an opportunity. Every leader should fall in love with criticism and listen more to criticism than they listen to compliments. Criticism should be welcomed and embraced—some people don’t have the courage or they may be introverted and therefore will not pick up the phone, e-mail or call you directly to ask questions. Instead they hide their desire for feedback in the form of gossip, misinformation or hearsay.

Regardless of the form or fashion, it’s an individual’s right to their opinion or to ask a question how and in the manner they see fit. As difficult as it may be, the best course of action for any one in a leadership position is not to take criticism personal. Always remember a criticism is someone’s opinion and not necessarily a statement of fact.

It is unrealistic to expect that every single person will agree or support a point of view, decision or objective a leader may articulate.

There are many views and opinions in T&T about sports, the state of sports and how best to move sport forward. There are different perceptions, perspectives and expectations. As an individual a leader will have his/her own style and approach to addressing different issues and their own unique way of communicating.

As much as buy in from all stakeholders is an ideal, don’t expect or anticipate that everyone will be in agreement. What is important is that the grassroots structure—clubs should be at the centre of sport development. Without a strong club infrastructure it will be near impossible for the various sports to sustainably develop. It’s important therefore for national sport organisations to pay serious attention to the needs and concerns of their clubs.

Regardless of the opposing points of view the challenge for national sport organisations is to strike a balance between sustainably developing their grassroots infrastructure—their clubs, while at the same time supporting their elite level and high performance aspirations. There are no easy answers or choices and as such no decision will enjoy universal acclamation. Integrity in sport, honesty, accountability, fairness, transparency, good governance and ethical conduct should be non-negotiable. No leader should be afraid to be called to account on the non-negotiable elements even if the call is disguised as harsh, unfair or destructive criticism.

Clarity of thought, focus and purpose provide the best response to the request for feedback disguised as criticism. Fear of criticism therefore should not be an obstacle or barrier to avoid making a decision or holding oneself publicly accountable. My advice to any leader is welcome, embrace, enjoy, love and treasure criticism.

Sport is an emotional experience, sport enthusiasts, fans and participants are passionate. They have strong views and feelings and opinions. Be thankful. God bless. Let go let go Let God.

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