As pilots, we’re trained to value precision, discipline, and doing things the right way. The moment you step outside the cockpit and into something new, like business, the same pursuit of excellence suddenly attracts criticism.
You start hearing things like, “Why risk it?” or “You should’ve stayed where it was safe.” And sometimes, those words don’t come from strangers; they come from people you care about.
That’s when it hits that excellence also means learning to stand tall even if your growth makes others uncomfortable.
If you’ve ever felt judged for wanting more than stability, this blog is for you. Here, we’ll explore why people criticize growth and how you can use that to fuel your growth through internal validation and much more.
Key Takeaways
- Excellence Attracts Criticism: The more you grow and take risks, the more people will judge. Criticism often says more about them than you.
- Fear of Approval Limits Growth: Worrying about what others think can make you play safe, stop taking risks, and slow your progress.
- Handle Criticism Smartly: Don’t take it personally. Reframe your approach, focus on your goals, and determine which feedback will actually help you improve.
- Stay True and Keep Moving: Trust your own path, track your progress, and keep showing up, even when others doubt or judge you.
The Paradox of Excellence
The strange truth about success is that the higher you climb, the more people notice, and not everyone will clap for you.
When you choose to grow, challenge norms, or step outside what’s comfortable, it often invites judgment instead of applause. Excellence naturally stands out, and anything that stands out becomes a target for opinions.
It challenges comfort zones, and people rarely respond kindly to what makes them uncomfortable. It reminds them of what they could be doing but aren’t. So while you’re focused on progress, others may concentrate on questioning your motives.
As Jeff Bezos once said,
“If you absolutely can’t tolerate criticism, then don’t do anything new or interesting.”
Why People Criticize Growth and Success
Growth changes how others see you, and not everyone is ready for that shift. When you evolve, take risks, or move in a new direction, those around you tend to respond with criticism. But most of the time, that criticism says more about them than it does about you.
Let’s break down why this happens.
1. Insecurity Projection
Your progress reminds others of the dreams they put on hold, the risks they avoided, or the effort they stopped investing. It’s uncomfortable to face that kind of reflection.
So instead of dealing with their own insecurities, they project them onto you. They’ll say things like, “You’ve changed” or “You’re overdoing it.” But what they really mean is, “You’re doing what I wish I had the courage to do.”
2. Fear of Change
Your growth alters the surrounding dynamics. Usually, people are used to a version of you, and when you change, that evolution can feel like a disruption to their stability.
They might not know how to fit into your new story. So instead of adapting, they criticize. It’s a defense mechanism. Change feels uncertain, and criticizing what’s changing helps them feel in control again.
3. Loss of Familiarity
As your goals shift, so do your conversations, habits, and energy. The people who once connected with your old rhythm may no longer find the same comfort in your new one. But it’s not personal, just about familiarity.
Growth pulls you toward new circles, and that can make old ones feel left behind. When people say, “You’re not the same anymore,” they’re really expressing a sense of loss, not anger.
The Real Cost of Seeking Approval
At first, wanting approval seems harmless. You just want to be liked, respected, or understood. But over time, that desire quietly becomes a cage. It shapes your choices, limits your potential, and keeps you playing small just to avoid judgment.
Many people don’t realize this, but the fear of criticism is one of the biggest reasons dreams never take off. I have seen many people stop living their lives and managing their image simply because of how others react to their success.
The Trap of “Safe” Choices
The fear of criticism often pushes pilot-turned entrepreneurs toward what feels safe. You stay in the same job because leaving might “look risky.”
You don’t share your business ideas because “what if it fails?” You avoid change because “people won’t understand.”
Each time you choose approval over progress, you trade long-term growth for short-term comfort. In the end, it all comes down to stagnation, where you look busy, but deep down, you know you’re stuck.
How to Handle Criticism Without Losing Momentum
Criticism is inevitable when you start doing something meaningful. What matters isn’t avoiding it, but learning how to respond in a way that keeps your focus and energy intact. Here’s how to do that:
1. Reframe the Critic’s Voice
People criticize because your progress reminds them of what they haven’t done. That’s not your fault. The best way to handle this is to stop overthinking and taking everything personally.
Instead of getting angry or sad, remind yourself: “This shows I’m growing.”
You’d be surprised to know that 92% of people agree that negative feedback actually makes them better. So each time you hear something hurtful, pause, breathe, and choose to stay calm.
2. Build Internal Validation
Relying on others for approval is a trap. If you always praise yourself for feeling good, one harsh word can ruin your day. Start building your own scorecard. Moreover, set small goals that matter to you and track your own progress.
Did you finish what you said you would? Did you improve a little today?
That’s what counts.
Just remember, you cannot control what others say, but you can control how you see yourself.
3. Filter Feedback Wisely
Not all feedback deserves your time. Some people give advice to help, while others do it to sound smart or to pull you down.
Before reacting, ask: “Is this helpful, or is it just noise?”
Take notes from people who have done what you’re doing or who want you to grow. Ignore random opinions that don’t add value.
Let the valuable stuff in, and let the rest slide off.
Invitation to Join Our FREE Strategy Session
Most pilots are one honest conversation away from clarity. This is that conversation.
Complete our “Life After the Sky” checklist, then join me for a FREE 15-minute “Strategy Session” via Zoom.
This session has been created for pilots who want to take ownership of what comes next.
Those who want action, not just to talk about it.
In just 15 minutes, we’ll:
- Review your checklist results
- Identify the one obstacle holding back your reinvention
- Translate your checklist results into a clear starting point
Start your pre-flight assessment for the next chapter of your journey by Booking your free strategy session here!
