Don’t take it personally

The phrase, “Don’t take it personally” is worse than useless.

What can you say instead?

Remember the CPD formula for making requests?

Make it clear (ask for a start or stop behavior), positive (ask for what you do want, rather than what you don’t), and doable (by the other person).

Wanting someone to not take something is a perfectly reasonable request, but is it doable?

How about saying: “The next time you receive criticism, can you reflect back on what you heard before reacting?”

OK, that’s doable.