A design critique is a structured session where designers and stakeholders evaluate a design artifact to provide constructive feedback. The goal is to improve the design's effectiveness while ensuring it aligns with user needs and business objectives. Unlike design reviews that focus on alignment and pass/fail criteria, critiques embrace friction to challenge assumptions and elevate the design process. They are not about personal taste but rather a way to inject constructive doubt into a designer's early ideas, pushing them to refine their work before moving too far along. The success of a critique hinges on the quality of feedback, which depends on the facilitator's ability to manage the discussion and set clear expectations. Effective critiques begin by highlighting what works in the design, validating shared definitions of success. Designers should bring their most challenging ideas to the table, embracing vulnerability instead of presenting only polished concepts. This openness can lead to valuable insights and improvements. Avoiding low-leverage feedback, such as minor accessibility concerns, allows the group to focus on more significant design challenges. Junior designers often struggle with critiques because they tie their self-worth to their work. Maturity comes when they learn that critiques aren't exams; instead, they are opportunities for growth. Those who actively participate in critiques build skills in articulating business value and absorbing feedback. With the rise of AI, the human aspect of critiques is increasingly important. While AI can generate ideas quickly, it lacks the context and strategic thinking that critiques provide. Engaging in these sessions cultivates critical thinking and improves not just the designs but also the designers themselves.