So, this is kind of a big deal, especially for those of you just starting out. The ability to shut up and accept what others are saying is a skill that you must learn. Obviously, the people that will get the most out of this post can already accept some words of critique and that's a shame really.
You're going to be given a lot of criticism through out the development on your game. Though, this applies to anything you will ever do, not only game development. Some of it will come from children, parents, professionals in the industry, or some lady at Starbucks. All of this advice is important.
I have seen other teams, or even friends, who are absolutely terrible at accepting criticism. I'm not always the best at it, and Zach Spurlock and I were trained in school to be accepting of thoughts about our work. Trust me, I know it's your baby and you've spent all your time and energy on this game, who are they to tell you that you're wrong? Artists, programmers, designers, sound engineers, you can always be better at what you do. Most people are trying to be helpful, don't take what they say as an attack on you, or on your game. It isn't personal. It is all about your frame of mind; You can be accepting or you can be defensive.
Carry around a pen and paper if you are going to be showing off your work. Write down what they have to say, even if it is a really dumb idea. Tell them "Oh that's interesting, we will have to look into that." Thank them. Seek out advice, show your game off to everyone you can and eventually it will become second nature.
This will make your life easier, not to mention people will be more inclined to look at your work. Take some criticism, you probably suck at it.
