Maturity

i hate criticism.   every time.

i hate it when it’s directed at me.   i hate it when it’s directed at people i care about.   i hate it when it’s directed at things i am responsible for.

but over the years,  i’ve learned that criticism is simply part of life.   sometimes it’s legit.   sometimes it’s bogus.   but no matter…every time i’m the recipient of criticism,  it stings.

sometimes the sting is quick and relatively painless in the long run.   other times the sting is the initial feeling of the knife beginning to slice through…as it leaves a gaping wound in me.   i know.   it’s a little dramatic.

but here’s the deal.   through it all,  i’ve come to accept that there is always some truth when hurt,  confused or angry people are critical of leadership. there is always something to be learned.   there are always places where improvement can be done.

when we receive criticism,  we need to look and listen for what portion of the criticism might be accurate…or even reasonable.   we need to be wise enough to seek truth from falsehood.   we need to be open enough to assume responsibility for our part.   and humble enough to graciously make changes where they are needed.

this is maturity.

#criticism #maturity