Once you are responsible for others, you learn quickly.
The effect of criticism.
We’ve all received it.
We’ve become accustomed to it.
When we’re in the position to give it, we like to give it.
That’s when we learn.
Sooner.
Or later.
The detrimental effect of criticism.
“It’s constructive criticism.”
That’s what one says to justify their comments.
Makes one feel like it’s for a good cause.
Which it probably is.
But that doesn’t mean it’s being done in the best manner.
Anything positive that can be achieved with criticism – be it constructive or not – can be achieved equally as well with encouragement.
Often faster.
And at a lower (emotional) cost.
We just haven’t received it much ourselves.
That’s why we resort to criticism.
Sooner or later we learn.
I want to make it sooner rather than later.
Encouragement beats criticism any day of the week.
Criticism leaves a bad aftertaste with the receiver.
Encouragement leaves a positive one.
That makes all the difference.
Some can be motivated by criticism.
All can be motivated by encouragement.
What is underlying encouragement is trust in one’s potential.
Criticism may be built on the same foundation.
That’s not how most receivers experience it.
Communication is a skill.
Anyone can get better at it.
If you don’t get the results you desire, all you have to do is improve your approach.
Even more so when it involves others.
This applies to colleagues.
Subordinates.
Managers.
Friends.
Family.
Children.
Don’t hold your belief in another in your heart.
Say it out loudly.
Let the other feel it.
Wrap your criticism and feedback in a blanket of encouragement.
Make it encouraging.
Make the other feel encouraged.
Work toward better encouragement.
Enjoy the difference it makes.
While you’re at it, give yourself some encouragement too.