Life Lessons on Handling Criticism

"To escape criticism, do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing." 

~Elbert Hubbard

What I know to be true...

That when you're too concerned with making a good impression, you almost never shine your true light. But rather, the act of being overly-concerned about other people's opinions, actually diminishes your light, and the clarity of one's thoughts and message becomes diluted in a people-pleasing-sea-of-nothingness. It is what I think of, when I think of the thin-plastic veneer...the cheap facade of the businesses world today.

That not everyone is going to like you. -And who cares! It is not your business to make everyone like you. It is your business to be clear, honest, and authentic. To take into account other people's feeling and to be fair and kind. But to always be *yourself*. As André Gide said: "It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not."

That the world is filled with critics and people who will tell you how to do what you're doing better. That's not necessarily a bad thing. The true art of improvement begins with the ability to filter criticism and extract the *valuable* data, while leaving the *baloney* behind. Remember that you are a work in progress, and the limits of what you achieve are only set by yourself.

That *everyone* has a talent. Several talents actually...

That everyone faces obstacles in the course of their lives...and to just persevere and push forth.

That great leaders do not discourage, intimidate, or chastise; but rather teach, build, encourage, and inspire. The mark of a great leader, is the legacy of happiness, confidence, and flourishing growth that they've inspired in others. -The leaders that they've produced. In my many years, I've worked for great leaders and weak leaders. The best examples of leadership were those, who cheered on their worker's and encouraged them to develop in the direction of their dreams and personal goals; even if it meant, eventually, that employee would move on to a different company or position. Great leaders can share in your joy and growth, and welcome it whole-heartedly.

Your happiness will always be worth the struggle it takes to achieve it.