What does criticism mean, and why is it harmful when directed towards us? Let us first take a look at the meaning of criticism in our Webster Dictionary.
- The expression of disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults or mistakes
Daily Wisdom Word Definition-1. The unhealthy expression of someone’s perceived faults and errors of another person.
Criticism hurts no matter where it comes from. I think it’s hardest on children when their parents criticize what they are doing rather than a parent using positive reinforcement to parent with as a tool. Children, when raised with criticism when they do something wrong, tend to act out in a negative manner to get their parents attention. Children that are raised with positive reinforcement, tend to look for that attention through themselves and their own achievements.
Criticism is also hard in a work environment. I remember working for a homebuilder that rarely gave compliments and raised his voice to me when I did something wrong. I noticed when the builder pointed out what I did wrong, I tended to follow up with doing something else wrong. It was not deliberate but criticism has that effect on me.
Criticism should always be replaced with positive reinforcement for our good qualities and a minimizing of our negative qualities. For example, let’s say that we have something negative we need to address with someone. It is always best to start off by complimenting them first about their good qualities. You could say something like this: “Jane, I really like it when you take your time when you choose your friends so I am sure Sarah is a good one; however, I feel uncomfortable around her for some reason”. Take accountability with your part of the problem and figure out a positive solution you both can live with.
Thank you so much for reading about criticism today. Have a beautiful and blessed day. Remember, for a limited time, joining daily wisdom words is free so sign up while you can. at the bottom of this post, beneath it, is a place where it says, “join the discussion”. Please share a comment, quote or poem about what criticism means to you in the box provided.
Samantha Leboeuf/DWW
