TOO FRAGILE TO GROW?
Everyone loves growth, until it demands actual change. If every piece of
criticism is labelled toxic, is the goal truly success, or just seeking comfort
disguised as confidence?
By Ishita Katoch
It’s easy to talk about improving oneself until someone points out your flaws. Ignoring reality doesn’t make it any less uncomfortable. Progress is about identifying what is preventing you from moving forward and addressing it, not about receiving continuous praise. Being open to what motivates you to get better is more difficult than simply moving forward.
Sneha Sharma, 20, a psychology student at Gautam Buddha University in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, sees it differently. “Everyone thinks Gen Z can’t stand criticism, but to be honest, we just understand our worth. Why should I take advice from someone who doesn’t get what we go through? If someone says to me grow by just destroying me rather than helping, of course, I won’t.”
During a classroom debate on academic pressure and burnout, Sneha felt frustrated when her professor brushed aside her concerns, saying stress was just a part of life and that students needed to toughen up. She had raised important points about the increasing pressure on students, the risk of burnout, and the need for real guidance from educators. However, instead of acknowledging these struggles, the professor dismissed them as excuses. Feeling unheard, she wondered how students could move forward if no one was willing to listen or offer proper support.
When the problems are ignored, change seems impossible. Without the proper assistance, the process becomes more discouraging than inspiring, which makes giving up simple. It’s easy to point out mistakes, but genuine
advice should provide guidance as well as critiques. Only when difficult situations are acknowledged, opinions are respected, and steps are made, does it become clearer how to proceed.
Jassika Kohli, 20, a Bachelor of Business Administration student at Jagannath International Management School, New Delhi, believes that embracing constructive input is essential for moving forward. “We’ve grown up with instant validation, so negative remarks can hit hard. But learning to take them the right way makes all the difference. Success isn’t about always feeling good, it’s about getting better.”
She recalls a moment during a college presentation when a professor pointed out gaps in her research. At first, she felt embarrassed, but later realised the remarks weren’t personal, they were a chance to refine her work. When she applied for an internship, she handled tough evaluations differently, asking questions and making adjustments instead of shutting down. Looking back, she sees how getting suggestions not only boosted her confidence but also prepared her for real world challenges.
Accepting the discomfort rather than running from it is the first step toward moving forward. The ability to listen, adapt, and refine oneself separates those who remain stuck from those who grow. It’s not about being right every time but about learning, evolving, and turning setbacks into opportunities.
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