The truth can be devastating. The ones most adversely affected are the writers who do not distance themselves from the work. Once written the literature must stand on its own merit. If you don't have anymore attachment to it than a photograph, then comments can't hurt it or you. Allowing yourself to become attached to it in any way is to invite the idea that criticism of the work is directed at you .
Criticism is subjective.
Eventually there'll be someone in the audience who happens to find your one sore spot, either intentionally or not, and lay into it with both barrels. Let's assume now that we've pared down our group seekers to only those folks with inch-thick skin and a determined attitude. These are the individuals that flourish in a group environment. It's not necessary to have those attributes at the start, but it's best to plan on building them. Regardless of the group joined, you will take a few shots to the head before you get out of the ring.