“To avoid criticism say nothing, do nothing, and be nothing.”
-Elbert Hubbard
How do the words above resonate with you?
Pause here for a moment and free yourself from distractions:
Take a deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... calm your mind and be present...
I believe most would agree criticism is unavoidable.
Whether receiving criticism or offering criticism to others , how do you handle it? Give that some honest thought...
criticism /noun/
the expression of disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults or mistakes.
the act of finding fault
a remark that expresses disapproval
I found Iyanla Vanzant's perspective on criticism compelling enough to share: from the book , Acts of Faith...
We become very offended when someone criticizes our actions.
We must consider what people are actually saying before we dismiss what could be valuable criticism.
Life is an accurate reflection of our consciousness.
People will usually say to us the very things we think to ourselves.
If we want others to speak well of us, we must first think well of ourselves.
Think back to a time when you received negative feedback....
What came up for you... What feelings about yourself surfaced? Spend time reflecting on this question...
"Each of us is stamped with the vibratory signature of our own state of consciousness."
-Paramahansa Yogananda
If you are looking for ways to better handle criticism, take a look at these tips in the article below:
How to Handle Criticism Like a Pro
by Laura Schwecherl, greatest.com
Both personal and professional success depends on being able to take criticism in your stride.
The keys to successfully handling criticism:
1. Listen honestly for a critic’s intention. Decide if feedback is constructive or destructive. Approach the situation with an open mind so you can understand the difference.
2. Thank those who offer constructive criticism, consider them an ally. These are people that want to see you win.
3. Avoid exploding in the face of constructive criticism. Respond calmly. Request clarification, take a breath and set emotions aside.
4. Make plans to act on constructive criticism. Action is key. You're receiving cheat codes for self-improvement.
5. Minimize encounters with people who consistently criticize to harm you. It's sad but true: Some folks thrive off of tearing others down. It may be time to cut them off... even if they're the people closest to you.
"Kobe Bryant (RIP) holds the record for missed shots in the NBA. Getting it wrong is absolutely fine, and a willingness to do so and learn is what makes people great."
How can you turn the criticism you hear from others into a valuable message? Think about that for a moment...
“Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish a man’s growth without destroying his roots.” – Frank A. Clark
How can you offer criticism to someone in a way that encourages growth? Spend some time with this one...
“When virtues are pointed out first, flaws seem less insurmountable.”
– Judith Martin
What are you willing to do?
Don’t miss your opportunity! Be intentional, encourage others to do the same and watch what happens.
You got this!
Coach Tavia
#beabetteryou, #learnandgrow, #responsibility, #accountability, #youmatter, #honoryourself, #live, #ownyourpower, #ittakescourage, #commitment, #thinkforyourself, #believe, #trustyourself, #beconsistent, #selfawareness, #selfdiscovery, #maximizeyourpotential, #shareyourgifts, #seizeopportunity, #becreative, #reflect, #reach, #stretch, #bepresent, #faith, #confidence, #dothework, #leadbyexample, #justdoit, #lifecoach, #leadershipcoach, #leadershipdevelopment
References:
How to Handle Criticism Like a Pro
Vanzant, Iyanla; Acts of Faith: Daily Meditations for People of Color. Atria, New York, NY 2020.
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