Who you choose to spend time with speaks volumes. Do you choose to associate with people who love you? What about people who don’t – people who are not your biggest fans?
When it comes right down to it, many of us (me included) don’t like to see our imperfections. We prefer the company of people who reflect our good qualities and seldom bring out the underbelly prejudices and negative impulses. However, choosing to connect with your critics ensures that you hear what you need to hear, step outside your comfort zone and potentially make a change in heart and/or behavior.
So how do you filter? Can you seek diverse input and still screen out the criticism and perspectives that don’t add value? Consider the source. Is this person motivated to help or hoping to drag you down? Find the former type of truth-teller, and you’ll find a valuable source of trusted insight. Feedback from these people is like gold, as long as you can remain open to it, even when it feels pinchy.
“The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.” Norman Vincent Peale
Need some helpful criticism? Tell us what’s up.
Photo from Dollar Photo Club.