Critics As Resources
No matter what you do, or what you are a part of, or what you create, there will be critics.
Our natural tendency is to shut them down. And to a large degree I think we should. We often do not need their negativism.
But... Before shutting them down, listen. They may have some valuable advice and feedback that can make you, your product, your creation or your group, better. So through the vitriol, filter and listen. You just may gain some valuable insight that will push what you're doing to the next level. Chances are their criticism isn't 100% unfounded.
This goes for people who "oppose" us. What if instead of fighting these people, we actually drew them in? First of all, they probably would be caught off guard. But the real value is, what if we drew our critics and "enemies" in? Here is what I can see potentially happening...
- A cease fire, and potential peace.
- A healthy dialogue could be started and have both parties end up at least understanding the other.
- Growth and Wisdom.
- Maturity.
Your worst enemy isn't always your loudest critic. They have something to offer. Listen to them and even possibly draw them in. What could come of two passionate forces joined together can only be known when it happens.
Our natural tendency is to shut them down. And to a large degree I think we should. We often do not need their negativism.
But... Before shutting them down, listen. They may have some valuable advice and feedback that can make you, your product, your creation or your group, better. So through the vitriol, filter and listen. You just may gain some valuable insight that will push what you're doing to the next level. Chances are their criticism isn't 100% unfounded.
This goes for people who "oppose" us. What if instead of fighting these people, we actually drew them in? First of all, they probably would be caught off guard. But the real value is, what if we drew our critics and "enemies" in? Here is what I can see potentially happening...
- A cease fire, and potential peace.
- A healthy dialogue could be started and have both parties end up at least understanding the other.
- Growth and Wisdom.
- Maturity.
Your worst enemy isn't always your loudest critic. They have something to offer. Listen to them and even possibly draw them in. What could come of two passionate forces joined together can only be known when it happens.
I disagree:)
ReplyDeleteThis is good. I appreciate your thoughts on this. There's a lesson in this for everyone, including myself.
ReplyDeleteHe called me a rebel, a heretic, a thing to flout.
ReplyDeleteHe drew a circle that shut me out.
But love and I had the wit to win.
We drew a circle that took him in.
Draw big circles. It takes a great deal of maturity to do what you have suggested, but it pays big dividends.