Other people’s words may contain advice or harm. We do not have to turn every word into a truth about ourselves.
You Can Listen Without Believing Everything
Some criticism is useful, while some reflects the speaker’s emotions or limitations more than it reflects our reality.
Separate Warnings From Harm
Look at the content, intention, and facts. Keep what helps you grow and release what only causes harm.
A Dhamma Perspective
Mindfulness helps us notice the thoughts that arise after hearing those words, without adding more suffering through repeated self-blame.
What You Can Do Today
- Ask what factual truth the words contain.
- Keep what is useful and release what is harmful.
- Speak to yourself with the same compassion you would give someone you love.
One Good Thing Today
Your worth does not decrease because someone sees you negatively. You do not have to become the person who hurts you on their behalf.
Come Back Tomorrow
Listen mindfully, learn when there is something to learn, and show yourself compassion when it is time to let go.
