Praise and Criticism-A Soul at Peace

You can learn a great deal about a person by the way he or she receives and responds to praise and criticism. With praise, some may become "puffed up" by the adulation; almost as if it is expected or needed. They seem to crave praise. They seek out the spotlight and may behave as if they are superior to their peers. Others may appear embarrassed or insecure when they are praised. They may project a feeling of unworthiness and react with self-deprecation or even deflect and give the credit to someone else.

Those who are at peace with themselves, receive praise with a graciousness and humility that is authentic and inspiring. They show appreciation for the acknowledgement of their efforts they share credit as appropriate; and, then they pass quietly out of the spotlight remaining steadfastly focused on their goals and their purposeful life.

Receiving criticism is not typically a pleasant experience. Some may be offended by the suggestion that they have done something wrong or behaved in a manner that is not appropriate. They may react defensively, project blame on others and even attach negative behaviors to their efforts going forward making sure to point out everyone else's mistakes. Others may feel criticism is justified, they may act as if it were expected, almost as it it were a self-fulling prophecy. They may behave like a whipped puppy, who cowers in expectation of another punishment.

Those who are at peace with themselves will listen carefully to the criticism. They will do a self-check for validity of the information and with also check their emotions. They are aware that sometimes others do not have accurate data therefore they have formed inaccurate conclusions. Upon reviewing the information they will politely and without malice provide clarity to correct any misunderstanding on their part; and, if there is something to be learned from the observation of others that may be causing their messages to be received negatively, they will make appropriate changes and request feedback. Those who are at peace with themselves desire to remain in that state; so, they will view the experience, though perhaps unpleasant, as an opportunity to grow and to improve.