“Criticism is something you can easily avoid by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” -Aristotle
No matter what you’re trying to do, someone somewhere has a harsh opinion.
Maybe it’s a virtual stranger. Since the advent of the Internet, people can easily vent their judgments behind a cloak of anonymity. Most of the world’s successful people have a Google trail laced with negativity.
Or maybe it’s someone who’s supposed to have faith in you—your father doubts your aptitude for the legal profession, or your friend thinks your singing belongs in the shower.
Either way, it hurts. And you may lose steam as a result.
Don’t.
Barbra Streisand’s mother told her she wasn’t pretty enough to be an actress and her voice was inadequate, to boot.
Peers criticized Albert Einstein about everything from his looks to his intelligence as a child, yet he grew up to become the father of modern physics.
Many people in France considered Gustav Eiffel’s tower design an eyesore and wanted it torn down.
“They” aren’t always right.
If you come against criticism today, realize it’s a gift. Whether it’s a valid suggestion to help you improve, or a harsh judgment that reminds you to develop a thicker skin, it can help you get closer to your dreams.
*This is an updated version of a post from September, 2009. Photo by Jen and a Camera.
About Lori Deschene
Lori Deschene is the founder of Tiny Buddha. She started the site after struggling with depression, bulimia, c-PTSD, and toxic shame so she could recycle her former pain into something useful and inspire others to do the same. You can find her books, including Tiny Buddha’s Gratitude Journal and Tiny Buddha’s Worry Journal, here and learn more about her eCourse, Recreate Your Life Story, if you’re ready to transform your life and become the person you want to be.
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Though I run this site, it is not mine. It's ours. It's not about me. It's about us. Your stories and your wisdom are just as meaningful as mine. 