When receiving criticism, our ego often kicks in and our composure worsens. However, we have the power to switch to 'improving mode,' where we embrace feedback and strive to get better. At Bridgewater, constant exposure to feedback helps cultivate this mindset. While the primal, emotional reaction may be louder, the logical voice that acknowledges areas for improvement is softer. It's a battle between the two, but recognizing this conflict quickly is a valuable skill. Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater, has even trained himself to find pleasure in negative feedback because he has seen the positive outcomes it can bring. Overall, while not always enjoyable, we crave criticism because it helps us grow. It's easier to accept when we have opted into it rather than when it's sprung upon us. Embracing criticism leads to progress and learning over time.