CRITICISM

“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.”

– Winston Churchill

Our reactions to criticism vary greatly among individuals, and many of us tend to be sensitive to it, often taking it personally. However, it is crucial for us to learn how to detach ourselves from such personal reactions. Understanding why we react the way we do to criticism is valuable. One significant factor is our ego. When someone fails to listen to us sincerely or dismisses our efforts, it hurts our ego. We take it personally because we desire validation and appreciation. To overcome this, we need to shift our focus from "me" to "we," altering our perspective on how we perceive criticism.

For instance, if we are a referee in a game and someone calls us an idiot for making a decision in favor of the opposing team, it is important to brush it off. Such remarks are a reflection of the other person's desires and motivations, not a true reflection of our worth. We should recognize that their comments are driven by their own agenda, and we should not let it affect us personally. However, if we are indeed at fault, it is crucial to show empathy towards ourselves and address our behaviors accordingly. Understanding our own values and self-assurance is key.

When others attempt to belittle us or treat us disrespectfully, it is essential to remain steadfast in our self-worth. We should not allow others to trample over us, as we know our own value and should not let their negative behavior define us. It is vital to cultivate a sense of inner strength and self-assurance.

In conclusion, our reactions to criticism can often be influenced by our ego and our longing for validation. However, by shifting our perspective and focusing on the collective rather than the individual, we can change the way we perceive and respond to criticism. It is crucial to recognize that personal attacks are often a reflection of others' motivations or insecurities, and we should not let them define our self-worth. By understanding and valuing our own beliefs and worth, we can navigate criticism with resilience and self-assuredness.