Combat Criticism
Feb 25, 2022
Everyone's beliefs and behaviors are different than others. Ours are based on our unique childhood and life experiences. We are all exposed to different biases, opinions, and beliefs. Usually, the way we treat others is a direct reflection of how we were or are being treated.
Sometimes we are critical of others and don't even know it. This behavior is harmful to our well-being and perspective on life. It keeps us in a "stuck state". Being aware of how we judge others is the first step to removing this type of negativity from our lives.
Other ways to combat our own criticism of others is to look at our reactions differently.
For example: Instead of saying "That's stupid" maybe we can just acknowledge that we would have made a different choice.
Instead of saying "What were they thinking?", maybe we can remember that everyone has their own circumstances and reasons why.
Instead of saying "that movie was terrible" maybe we can realize that other people may like it for whatever reason. So instead, you can say "I didn't enjoy that movie". Just because we don't like something doesn't mean it's terrible.
How did we get here? I believe a lot of it has to do with the judgments we hear as we are growing up. It is a cycle that becomes second nature.
If our go-to is always to criticize, we have to ask ourselves what state of mind that keeps us stuck in. Challenging our thinking and perspective moves us closer to ending cycles of negative attitudes that keep us down.
Criticism can be shifted to understanding.
Intolerance can be shifted to acceptance.
Feeling stuck can be shifted with an open mind.
