Apr 7, 2013

Criticism: Offer it constructively (2)


Criticism needn’t essentially imply ‘fault finding’. Albeit infamously labeled as uncompassionate expression of disapproval and dissent, it is an expression of discontentment and can be presented sensitively, yet effectively. Arguments and fights can be evaded if criticism is is offered with constructive and non-derogatory intentions. Critics have often been referred to as holders of the faculty of knowledge. Those with academic superiority, and socio-emotional actualization know the content and process of criticism to assure its acceptance. If governed by politeness and decency, criticism can transform the world for the better when ground rules of its exposition are obeyed:

constructive criticismConcise
  • You are not studying hard enough to pass that exam
  • The presentation is good but it won’t get us the deal
  • The décor is a bit casual for the wedding ceremony
  • You are an awful husband; I think you are simply the worst!
  • Your work performance is below average; you’re really bad!
  • You are such an ill behaved child; you should be punished! 
  • You have not eaten your lunch but we can try and have a snack later
  • The presentation was average, but we can work better on the final one
  • Well you did forget to pick my outfit from the designer, but it’s alright
  • I have really been thinking; your anger gets the better of you at times
  • I honestly feel this proposal needs improvement to create an impact
  • I truly believe you’re intelligent, but your report card needs to show it
  • Let’s slow down on those French fries; we’re both trying to lose weight
  • You’re having a rough time; lets help you with it so work doesn't suffer
  • Lets work together on your studies; you certainly need to perform better

Respectful
Insightful
Truthful
Introspective
Clear
Important
Sincere
Meaningful

Introspective
When there is goal, action seems worthy of performance. A football game would seem foolish if it involved running about a field kicking a ball aimlessly. Critical analysis of thoughts, beliefs, behavior and mannerisms of others may have rational footing; however it serves no purpose if people cannot realize it. Criticism ought not to antagonize, but to empathize; and build insight. Zooming ahead in time to anticipate the reaction that criticism is intended to trigger, modifies its expression and raises the chances of it truly making a meaningful impact.
Messages transmitted ought to be well received. Else there’s no point in the transmission. What is spoken must be heard; else it qualifies as jargon. The knack of persuasion is gifted to a selected few.
Clear
General arrays of communication in the world have changed. Superfluous talks tinged with hollowness have gained dominance; descriptive expressions are layered and messages have confounding variables connected with them. People are more aware of what they dislike but are less clear about expressing so. If the purpose and intent of criticism is not expressed, it becomes redundant.
When people are told they’re bad, but have no clue as to why, they have little reason to change, and littler to be thankful for that piece of information shared with them. Ambiguity can perplex the most intelligent minds while clarity in thought and its lucid expression paves way for appropriate transmissions of viewpoints.
Important
Perfection is much coveted, however flexibility and readiness to accept fresh ideas with laterality in thinking can open novel avenues for growth. Unless really essential, one must avoid picking faults. To err is human; accepting that anthropological reality, one can offer second chances and save criticism for later. For those in authority, criticism seems part of protocol, however the right to criticize ought to be earned. With that in mind one can try to be be reasonably accepting and less demanding on others.
When you acknowledge the flaws but renounce nitpicking, criticism becomes productive already.
Sincere
Success in all interpersonal interactions calls for structuring a good rapport. Intentions then seem genuine, words honest and criticism authentic. Earnestness needs no announcement; it reveals itself in mannerisms and the tone of communication.
The world appreciates earnestness and longs to take the opinions of the genuine minds. The morally sound and emotionally confident make the bets reviewers; their criticism is much sought-after.
Meaningful
While most uncritical people seem friendly and supportive, they are truly naïve and superficial. Having an opinion expresses efficiency of the intellect, and offering meaningful options and alternatives reflects the willingness to enhance oneself, others and the globe at large. When implications are tangible, the message gets across better. The most ignorant, egoistic and arrogant souls also appreciate consequential suggestions. The world needs critics to identify prejudices and biases, and delineate improvement areas. If critics use their powers of criticism gainfully hey can profoundly impact the world to direct positive change…

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