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Dealing With Criticism and Difference in Opinion
By
Robert Elias Najemy
Why this is important
We often become emotionally disturbed during a disagreement, or an
argument, or when someone criticizes us or disagrees with us. In such
cases our personality usually feels hurt, demeaned and in danger. When we
feel this way, we destroy our own happiness, clarity and health and often
behave in ways which we later regret.
A simple technique for gaining clarity is to:
1. Remember that concerning criticism, there are two possibilities:
a. The other person might be correct in his or her observations and
criticism. In this case we would benefit by admitting it and making the
proper adjustment in our behavior. We have everything to gain by listening
and evolving through others’ comments. What prevents us is the belief
that we are not lovable if we are not perfect. Thus, we do not want to see
or admit our faults. When we realize that we are worthy of love and
respect even when we are not perfect or right, then we will be able to
look at our faults.
b. The other person might be wrong. In this case, it is his or her
projection, and we need not be affected by these misconceptions or
projections. We have in this case the lesson of loving ourselves and also
the others even when they perceive us in distorted and negative ways.
2. One solution would be simply not to react one way or the other at
first, but to reflect upon what has been said for some time so as to
evaluate whether or not it is true.
We
can establish a space in our minds where we can store such questions about
our personality structure or actions so as to observe objectively for
ourselves if they are true. If they are not, then we simply continue on in
the way we were.
We need not feel hurt, angry, defend ourselves, prove ourselves, or
attack. When we feel inner security and self-worth, we do not need to
react in these ways.
3. We can simply thank the other for this feedback and tell him or her
that we will think about this observation and will gradually come to our
conclusions, and if necessary, make changes.
We do not need to live our lives in accordance with others’ perceptions.
We can listen to all, but follow ourselves.
Note: A "thank you" is enough.
Robert Elias Najemy, a life coach with 30 years of experience, has trained
over 300 Life coaches and now does so over the Internet. Info at: http://www.HolisticHarmony.com/introholisticcoach.asp
ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE EMAIL THE MODERATORS
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