In this post I want to talk about Criticism and what it is and what it does and what's it good or bad for.
We all know what it feels like to be criticized by people, worse if it's not random people who criticize us but people we know, people we value and people we hold dear.
What does Criticism feel like?
In my personal experience criticism certainly doesn't make me feel good, but it makes me question my previous decisions and/or opinions about something, which in the end led to criticism.
It sometimes make me feel stupid. Like: "Why the hell can't I get it right?" or "Was it really necessary to respond to him or her in this way?"
"You have blue hair?!?! That's silly! How do you think people will ever take you seriously?"
I don't think that would feel good to hear... (and no, I didn't dye my hair blue)
What is criticism good for?
Criticism is only good if it is without judgment and when it's purpose is to help change something for the better and to help improve things (optimize possible solutions)
This is the kind of criticism called 'Constructive Criticism'.
Constructive criticism often happens in a professional environment where optimal solutions have to be found and people brainstorm and criticize in order to create an improved status quo, which is certainly every ones benefit because professionals get to pick each others brains.
That said, the goal of constructive criticism is not to make anyone feel bad, but to help each other and find good solutions.
Great if it works like that!
What is criticism bad for?
If a person is criticized all the time for no apparent reason than it may not be constructive criticism at all, since it doesn't have any of the before mentioned benefits for anyone. It only makes the person being criticized nervous, anxious and chews on the person's self esteem, depending on how far the criticizing person drives it it can even lead to serious personal problems such as depression and illness!
This kind of criticism does not help anyone but the one who practices it on others. I'm talking from personal experience when I say that this can really eat you alive.
(this could also be considered bullying)
What is Criticism?
Perhaps the most important realization about criticism is this:
Criticism is but a mere reflection of a persons own insecurity, uncertainty and jealousy toward the person being criticized. Therefore you may accept it for what it is and move on, knowing that you are on the right path - on your own.
I hope you enjoyed the read folks, and until next time.
Take it easy.
Mario
P.S. If you have anything to add, ideas, comments or questions, please feel free to post them in the comments section.
