What kind of power does criticism have over us? How much truth is there in someone’s criticism? What does criticism do to us? What does it make us feel?
No one likes criticism, which may prove even more true when referring to heart-centred individuals, introverts, and empaths. Of course, we should all try to find the positive in everything that comes our way. Surely, it is sometimes even possible to learn from constructive criticism. BUT let’s be honest. Most criticism that comes our way is not constructive but destructive.
When we hear criticism, it makes us feel less than, it can destroy our self-confidence and self-esteem. Experiencing criticism can leave us shaken and questioning who we are and what we stand for. It is such a shame that direct criticism can break down all the things we have worked so hard to build up and can make our achievements seem smaller than they once felt.
We should never allow the opinions and perceptions of others to cloud how we feel about ourselves. Even the most secure and confident people can begin to second guess themselves when faced with criticism. Inevitably, criticism can alter, mould and negatively impact our opinions of ourselves and make us question what we believe in. If we let it, it is capable of making us feel alone and unworthy and hindering our progress on the journey of self-discovery and healing.
So why do we let criticism
impact us so much?
Perhaps it is because we have not learned how to stand up for ourselves. Or even entertain the idea that we should indeed stand up for ourselves. Maybe it is because it is easier to believe what others say than prove them wrong. Or perhaps we are so quick to accept their opinion as truth right off the bat because it is someone we look up to or respect, so they must be right. But what if they are wrong? What if their opinion is just that. An opinion.
Opinions, thoughts and perspectives are all subjective. They are all formed through our unique and individual experiences, failures and triumphs. For these reasons, we must learn to question what is being said. Equipping ourselves with the skills to question what others are saying or believing about us.
So what should we do instead?
We must build our self-confidence and self-love to a level that no one can knockdown. It is essential that we don’t accept opinions as facts but simply as thoughts. The sooner we start accepting and believing that we are powerful, courageous and loving humans that we are, the better off we will be.
If we do this, then criticism won’t have the effect it has on us now. Rather than criticism feeling like a punch to the gut, it will simply feel like an opinion. One that won’t break us or convince us that we are inferior or inadequate. Only then can we embrace it learn from it, and take away its power.