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| Curb the Criticism
Could you go a day without a criticizing yourself or someone else?
Think about it; no cursing at the driver who hogs the passing lane, no judging a co-worker for their work ethic, no reminding a partner or kid about a habit you code as bad, no complaining about a friend who makes a poor decision, AND no beating yourself up for making a mistake. I doubt many of us could make it 24 hours without doing one of the above.
Complaining, judging, criticizing, no matter who it's aimed at, casts a negative pall on a day, evening, or a lifetime. When two or more people join in a "gripe fest," it exponentially expands the negative atmosphere.
Even though some criticism is legitimate, it can become a habit. Keep track of your complaints over the next few days. If you see that you are being negative more than you think is helpful, try a few days curbing your criticism. Each time you feel one coming on, stop, take a deep breath, and then decide whether it really will help. You may choose to continue with the thought or words but at least it will be a choice rather than unconsciously adding negativity to your day, evening, or life!
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