By Wangari Murathe

Flexible pencil

Bible Verse: “He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing”. ~Proverbs 29:1 E.S.V

We are all perfectly flawed. We should therefore strive to take criticism positively and constructively; and be willing to constantly improve ourselves.

Taking other people’s criticism inculcates humility by pointing out our weaknesses; it points us to new perspectives and ideas and helps expand our thinking. It helps us to practice active listening, and gives us a chance to practice forgiveness when we come up against harsh critics.  It teaches us patience as we listen without retorting, and helps us to choose peace over conflict. It helps us retain an open mind, always considering the option that the others could be right; therefore improving relationships.

Actively listening to criticism helps us to know other people and their intentions; pointing out to us those with hostile objectives that we are never going to please, and therefore helping us resolve to be strong and move on without their approval.  It helps to not sweat the small stuff and to put up with other’s annoying habits without unduly stressing ourselves and spoiling our joy.

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“That which yields is not always weak.” ~ Jacqueline Carey.

“Criticism is something you can easily avoid by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” ~Aristotle

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