you don’t have to bite your tongue,
but perhaps you can use a different method in raising your concerns.
today, when you find yourself wanting to criticize others or something, take a pause.
take a beat.
take a deep breath + regroup.
no one is above criticism; however, we must evaluate what we are saying before we say it.
is it helpful?
is it necessary?
is it harming you?
what are we hoping to gain from saying this?
you aren’t responsible for how others behave or react to what you say.
you are, however, responsible for the energy you put out in this world; for the things you say + for the way you choose to behave when dealing with others.
it’s not always about what you say, it’s also how you say it.
this statement is less about tone policing (since tone is very subjective) + more about the words that are coming out of your mouth.
instead of defaulting to criticism, choose to appreciate people’s efforts.
we don’t always understand the intention behind the actions people take so while we may not agree with said action, it’s still important to recognize that person as doing their best.
it can be as simple as turning, “i really hate when you…” to “i appreciate when you…“.
you can say the exact same thing by reframing it to highlight what you like about what’s happening with less attitude + more gratitude.
as challenging as it may be, do your best to break the cycle of criticism.
think how much you enjoy (or don’t enjoy) someone “coming for your edges” + focus on the ways to engage with love, kindness, + compassion.
be you, be dope!
Phylicia Sadsarin
Mindset Coach
journal prompt(s) for today:
what some criticism you hate receiving? why? when you receive criticism, what are some ways you can hear what people are saying without taking offense?