Embrace Constructive Criticism

It is a very common way of thinking to assume everyone who criticizes us is a hater or a jealous friend. We are quick to tell others not to judge us because they are not in our shoes. The truth is that not every criticism is bad, but we fail to realize this because we focus on defending ourselves even when we are not being attacked. In order to fully acknowledge the behavioral traits that hold us back, we must learn to listen to what others have to say about us. I am not asking you to dwell on rumors; I am telling you to ask questions about yourself.

Sit with your family and friends and ask questions about yourself. This is not an exercise designed to upset you, and it is not about defending yourself. It is about seeing what others see that you might subconsciously avoid. This is an acknowledgement exercise designed to help you understand where you might be going wrong. Speak with individuals who are more experienced than you are; chat with people you look up to. Assess yourself based on their observations. Are they dwelling on one isolated incident? Or have you been involved in a string of incidents that have caused them to draw their conclusions regarding your behavior?

We are very quick to shut people down because we do not want them to put the light on our flaws, faults and shortcomings. The truth however is that when we listen to others, we will not just learn something new, we will learn about ourselves too. XOXO