When asked for your opinion on a work, think in terms of two axes

I think there are times when you are asked for your opinion on a work.

To get a better overview of your own opinion, it is good to think in terms of two axes.

This time, the topic is "when you are asked for your opinion on a work."

Two axes

Dividing opinions into two axes makes them easier to understand.

1. Pointing out good points ←→ Pointing out bad points

2. The other party is aware ←→ The other party is unaware

It looks like this when put into a diagram.

The quality of the opinion differs depending on the combination.

• Best opinion = The other party is unaware + Good point

• Good opinion = The other party is aware + Good point

• Better left unsaid = Bad point

Let's look at each one.

Best opinion

The best opinion is to point out a good point that the other party is unaware of.

It seems like you know your own good points, but you often don't.

Pointing that out is very helpful to the other party and will also make them happy.

In most cases, the elements you think are good are the ones pushed to the forefront of the work.

Therefore, it is good to look for positive points outside of that (though you can praise that part too).

The best kind of opinion gives the other person a new realization—'So that was a good point of mine too!'—and encourages them at the same time.

As a way of showing support, when you give an opinion, it is a good idea to consider whether it is the best possible opinion.

Good opinions

Next, a good opinion is pointing out the good points the other person is already aware of.

The other person is already aware of it, but by affirming it properly, you create an opportunity for them to reconfirm it.

Even if you think something is a good point yourself, there are many times when you cannot be truly sure.

By pointing that out, you can help them gain confidence by saying, 'I knew it!'

Opinions that don't need to be said

This may vary from person to person, but I believe that negative points do not need to be mentioned, whether the other person is aware of them or not.

When asked to 'give me your opinion,' some people take it as an opportunity to point out negative points.

I understand that, but at the very least, I think you should only point out negative points after you have shared the best and good opinions.

A creator's heart is unstable.

They are always wavering, wondering, 'How is my work?' 'Is it not very good?' 'Is this something I can show others?'

Therefore, it takes a lot of courage to ask someone, 'Could I have your opinion?'

If you are asked for your opinion, you are trusted by that person.

Let's live up to that trust.

Of course, if you are asked to 'tell me the bad points too,' it is fine to say them, but if you are not asked, pointing out the good points is enough.

Opinions you should not listen to

This is something creators must be careful about.

There is absolutely no need to listen to these kinds of opinions.

• Unfounded criticism

You do not need to listen to criticism that lacks reasons or evidence, such as "I just don't like it," "It's not quite right," or "It's boring."

Vague criticism doesn't tell you what needs to be fixed, and for a creator, it is simply harmful.

In the first place, it is too careless to ask someone who can only offer such opinions.

You must protect your own work and your own heart.

Among them, there are also people who are excessively aggressive toward creators.

Such people feel a sense of inferiority toward those who are creating something or striving toward something.

The reason is that they themselves are doing nothing.

Therefore, they try to drag you down to their level by saying things like "It's a terrible work," "You should quit," or "Don't waste your time."

Keep your distance from such people.

Just because you are close friends does not mean you should ever ask for their opinion.

You should be more cautious.

I will say the same thing many times: because you are the only one who can protect your own work and your own heart.

Summary of this time

It was "When asked for an opinion on a work."

1. Dividing it into two axes makes it easier to see

   1. Good points vs. bad points

   2. Whether the other person is aware of them or not

2. The best feedback is pointing out good points the other person hasn't noticed

3. Good feedback is pointing out good points the other person is already aware of

4. You don't need to point out bad points
   If asked, point them out modestly

5. Don't listen to baseless criticism
   In the first place, don't ask such people for their opinions

6. Protect your own work and your heart yourself

In truth, what creators often want is not an opinion, but positive energy.

Therefore, rather than thinking about giving an opinion, it works well to think about how to boost the other person's energy.

See you later, bear.

(Added on May 9, 2023)

Thank you for sharing the article!