We sometimes get so caught up with pleasing others and trying to avoid criticism that we neglect what is important to ourselves. Think about it. If we are continuously changing ourselves to avoid criticism, we are focusing on our own negatives rather than our positives.
How often have you heard a whisper or have been told by someone about something that was said about you? Did you automatically try to defend your actions or make excuses, or retaliate with an attack of your own? I found this quote recently and thought how wise Epictetus was considering he was born 2000 years ago.
“If you hear that someone is speaking ill of you, instead of trying to defend yourself, you should say: “He obviously does not know me very well, since there are so many other faults he could have mentioned” Epictetus (60-110AD)
This is similar to a quote I wrote about previously “What Other People Think of Me is None of My Business“.
No-one truly knows us like ourselves. That includes all the faults, all the good qualities, all the love, the fears, the thoughts. Be proud of who you are, make the changes necessary for yourself, not because someone else criticizes one aspect of your character.
This was a really quality post. I usually defend myself very verbally when I am criticized. Maybe next time I’ll remember this post and do something different
If someone is criticizing you, work out whether what they are saying is justified or more of a reflection of themselves. Thanks for sharing your comments Sharon.
Thanks for the post. I actually learned something from it. Very good content on this site and I always look forward your new posts. – Dollie
I’d love to share this post with my readers on my site. Great info and beautifully written