The truth of the matter (and I'm not trying to brag here) was that at least 90% of what was said about me (at least, that I know of) has been positive. I'm glad of that. It led me to think of the chapter of my life that was the position I held in that organization and what it meant to me. It led me to remember how much I have learned, and how patient the people I learned from were with me.
But it also made me think of something else.
When I look back on my entire life, what would my "coworkers" say about me? What would my friends, neighbors, family members, etc. say? Is the response as positive as the response I felt from my coworkers at my last position?
The truth of the matter is, when you get a negative review from someone, sometimes that isn't your fault. I work with extraordinary people. Their positive attitude towards me is not just a reflection of me, but a reflection of themselves. I started out a 22 year old working with people who all had families, longer careers than myself, homes, etc. They could have easily brushed me off as "immature" or "annoying." Instead, they were patient with me, affirmed my choices and helped me mold my career and work ethic.
When you think about what your "coworkers" would say about you in life, think about the "coworker" (friend, in-law, etc.) that has something negative to say. Does that person's opinion actually hold weight? Did they try to get to know you? Do they understand your decisions? Do they themselves get glowing reviews from their "coworkers"? Or are reviewed just as toxic as they are reviewing you?
It is my belief, that toxic is as toxic does. Let go of the nasty reviews in life and focus on the people who review you glowingly. I am lucky to have a staff of people who care about me and love me, but as for the rest of my "coworkers" out there in the world, I am working on them.