By Junaid Tahir Ideally speaking, criticism is the act of analyzing someone or something (such as an article, video, book, product, or ...
By Junaid Tahir
Ideally speaking, criticism is the act of analyzing someone or something (such as an article, video, book, product, or service) with the intention of improvement. However, in day-to-day life, you will encounter many people who criticize with negative intentions. They often aim to defame, discourage, and demotivate others. Despite this common misuse, criticism doesn't necessarily mean finding faults. In this article, I will share my thoughts in two categories: when you are being criticized and when you are criticizing.
1. When You Are Being Criticized:
a) Take It Positively:
There is a chance that your well-wisher has rightly drawn your attention to something that needs improvement. If this is the case, be grateful to the person who helped you identify the aspect that requires enhancement and move towards corrective actions.
b) Analyze Carefully:
Sometimes, criticism is intended to depress you. Analyze it carefully. If needed, seek advice from a friend or colleague about the negative feedback. If the feedback is meant to be constructive, see point 1. Otherwise, disregard it and do not let it disturb your peace of mind.
2. When You Are Criticizing Someone/Something:
a) Criticize Positively:
Negative criticism generates negative energy, so try to criticize in a positive and encouraging manner. Do not become the 'full stop' for someone's creativity.
b) Check Your Intentions:
Before you criticize, ask yourself whether your intention is to assist the person or simply to spread negativity, which will erode someone's creative skills.
c) Be Constructive:
If you truly want to criticize someone, do it in an encouraging way. Give your comments in multiple parts so that the person can understand your feedback and segregate it easily, transforming your suggestions into corrective actions.
d) Avoid Complaints:
Remember that complaining takes criticism to the next level, which is even more damaging and dangerous. Stay within the bounds of constructive criticism rather than veering into complaints.
Having said that, some people habitually criticize regardless of their understanding of the situation. Be aware of them, as they pollute not only themselves but also the environment, ultimately impacting you, your product, your skills, and/or your services. They spread negativity.
I close my article with the famous quote: "Instead of criticizing others, become the change you wish to see in the world."
