Tag Archives: criticism

Reality Check: The Thank You Response

Whether or not we deserve it, we are sometimes on the receiving end of criticisms, even putdowns. Some people refer to these types of comments as “feedback,” and we know that thoughtful feedback can give us useful information. However, when … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: The Generosity of Not Taking Offense

Ask anyone, “Is it good to be generous?” I think most would say yes; generosity is a desirable trait. To be seen as being mean and selfish is insulting. Generosity isn’t only about money or material goods. People who give … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Does This Call for a Confrontation?

What does a satisfying life look like for you? For many people, an important measure of a satisfying life is that it includes being on good terms with people. Exactly who and how many people will vary from person to … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Beginning a New Habit

Some folks approach the beginning of a New Year as the “Season of Good Intentions.” It’s January, a fresh new year stretches ahead of us. The possibilities are endless, or at least, they seem different than the “same old-same old” … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Fishing for Choices

A story about halibut fishing in Alaska recently caught my attention. Now, I’m not generally interested in halibut fishing, and although Alaska is undoubtedly lovely, it doesn’t hold any special appeal for me. What intrigued me was that the story … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: To Speak or To Hold Your Peace

Do you ever have moments in conversation when you wonder, “Should I speak up? Or is it better to bite my tongue?” In some cases, it can seem like we don’t even have a choice. Let’s say someone has said … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: When We Don’t See Eye to Eye

A snippet of overheard conversation reminded me of a common source of relationship conflicts. It’s the idea that the people close to you should share your opinions. In this case, a young woman we’ll call Liz was venting her frustration … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Messages That Matter

Have you ever received feedback that you didn’t want to hear? Yet, once you’ve heard it, you realize that even though it’s painful, it’s true. When someone we love and trust points out that our actions are leading us in … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Would You Listen to Yourself?

For this post, I’ve chosen the headline, “Would you listen to yourself?” This simple question could be perceived quite differently by different people. What do you think it means? Some folks would interpret it as an expression of exasperation. Even … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: The Sharp Edge

Criticism is a double-edged sword, and that sword can have one very sharp edge. I say it’s “double-edged,” because some criticism may be intended to be helpful (referred to as “constructive criticism.”) More likely, however, criticism results in hurt rather … Continue reading →

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