More than likely, you've experienced the frustration of a subjective contest. Maybe art contests with vague judging criterion or a scholarship essay contest you are certain to win. Results of either can turn against you a hundred different ways; the kid of some big-name-in-town stole the art show with a poorly drawn still life of an avocado. The three ballots from a judging panel turned down your essay; all for different and contradictory reasons you can’t help avoiding. One thought you were too political, another said you weren’t critical enough. The last judge thought you wrote with the perfect blend of politically-savvy analysis, but your introduction didn’t quite grab her attention "good enough." Or you didn’t include her favorite poem about cats like the first place winner did.

Whatever the reason behind judge’s comments—rational or ridiculous—believe it or not, there is value in subjective criticism. For one, life is a subjective contest. This is true for everyone; situations in life will favor variables you cannot control. Learning how to accept and understand the critiques of your judges (of all age groups) is key to developing strategies that will improve your effectiveness. You learn to cater to an audience. You notice how your listeners react, and aptly decide a joke is desperately needed. You can safely assume the college-aged judge will vote for your win if you make an embarrassing spectacle out of your opponent. Even if you don't necessarily agree with how someone thinks, you can gain a good impression of people and adapt with practical experience.

This mentality extends beyond the world of competitive public speaking. Politics, business, the medical field and countless other professional areas require an understanding of how people think. If it only takes seven seconds to forge a first impression of someone, it is important to know the realm of criterion available for that impression.

The most important takeaway from this is knowing that you, yourself, are subjective. We are our own worst critics. Constructive criticism to validate your strengths make your natural abilities obvious, but don't beat yourself up over a negative comment. Subjective comments are just that: opinions. Sometimes they're correct, other times not, but impossible to prove either way. It's up to you to decide how you should implement notes into your hard work. At the end of the day, it is your work. And you should be proud of it, regardless of judgement by others.