Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you received some criticism, and instead of taking it as an opportunity to grow, you felt attacked or belittled? If so, you’re not alone. The truth is, most of us would rather be praised than criticized, even if that praise isn’t necessarily deserved.
But why is that? Why do we have such a hard time accepting criticism, even when it’s given with good intentions? I believe it’s because we’re afraid. We’re afraid of being wrong, of failing, of not being good enough. And when someone points out our flaws or mistakes, it’s a harsh reminder that we’re not perfect.
But here’s the thing: nobody is perfect. Every single one of us has flaws and makes mistakes. And the only way we can improve ourselves is by acknowledging those flaws and working to overcome them. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary if we want to grow and become the best version of ourselves.
So why do we resist criticism so strongly? I think it’s because we often tie our self-worth to external validation. We want people to like us, to think we’re smart and talented and capable. And when someone criticizes us, it feels like a personal attack on our worth as a person. But the truth is, our worth isn’t determined by what other people think of us.
I know it’s easier said than done, but the next time someone criticizes you, try to view it as an opportunity for growth. Instead of getting defensive or hurt, take a step back and evaluate what they’re saying. Is there some truth to their criticism? Is there something you could do better next time? Use their feedback to improve yourself and your work.
It’s also important to remember that not all criticism is constructive. Some people will criticize you just for the sake of being mean or to make themselves feel better. In those cases, it’s okay to ignore their criticism and move on. But when you receive feedback from someone who genuinely wants to help you improve, don’t let your fear of failure hold you back. Embrace the criticism, learn from it, and use it to become a better version of yourself.
In conclusion, the trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined with praise than saved by criticism. But if we want to grow and improve, we need to learn to accept criticism as a necessary part of the process. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. So the next time you receive some feedback, try to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Who knows? It might just be the thing that helps you reach your full potential.
Lance M. Morgan 