47 COMPLIMENTS AND CRITICISMS
What you think of me is none of my business.
Terry Cole-Whittaker
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Ask yourself, how do you respond to criticism. How do you feel when
someone criticises you? How do you feel when you know you are about
to be criticised? Do you have any ‘crumble buttons’ – highly sensitive
areas which immediately trigger strong defensive feelings in you? Do
you know where they come from?
Unless you’re aware of your vulnerable areas others may pick up on
them and use them to deliberately embarrass or belittle you.
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When someone criticises you, before you react try to ascertain why they
are doing so and whether the criticism is fair. If it is false firmly reject it
using your assertiveness skills.
But if you feel they have your best interests at heart and that they
are making a fair point, thank them and learn from it. And be willing
to admit your mistakes and apologise if appropriate. It takes confidence
and high self-esteem to admit you’re wrong.
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Do you often find yourself being critical of others?
If so, why do you think that is?
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