Transforming criticism

• The criticism is mean-spirited. If you use insulting or degrading language or put down the person in any way, they will focus on that, and not on the rest of the criticism.
• If you focus on the person instead of their actions, you will make them angry or defensive or hurt.
• They assume you’re attacking them. Some people can’t take criticism in a detached, non-personal way. 
• They assume they’re right. Many people don’t like to hear that they’re wrong, whether it’s true or not.

• Don’t attack attack, insult, or be mean in any way
• Talk about actions or things, not the person.
• Don’t tell the person he’s wrong.
• Don’t criticize at all. Give a positive suggestion instead.

Grit is a form of perseverance and resilience mixed together, and helps us move forward in times of adversity. Grit is essential to achieving big goals and to handle the seemingly never ending obstacles and tough terrains of life.

Combining Stoicism with Grit makes your mind invincible as you focus on the right thing no matter what happens, improving your performance and results in all aspects of life.

When an obstacle, a mental block, or a difficult situation presents itself, we need to pay attention to that moment and power through it with awareness, counting the grit as a +1 credit on your grit counter. This is a mini-success in itself.

It is easier when done slowly and steadily increasing your Grits daily.

In the face of uncertainty, it is natural to hold on to the status quo and stick to as-normal-as-possible routines and tasks. This can work when the context is predictable, and the goal is clearly defined.

However, during periods of volatility and stress, a taskmaster mode could be a mistake. The individual can feel pressured or obligated, which will make them negative. It is more important to prioritize your team's needs and create an environment of trust and support. It will unleash positive emotions, and the person is likely to feel more confident, hopeful, and willing to consider new ideas.

We can follow six steps to help others, using the acronym “REACH”:

• Resonance. Check in with each person without discussing a list of tasks. The goal is to create a supportive and positive relationship.
• Empathy. Shift your concern from wanting to be understood to understanding others.
• Awareness. Be aware of your mindset and emotions. Emotions are contagious.
• Compassion. Try to focus on the needs of others and encourage caring and warmth to help another person in their development.
• Hope. Spreading positive emotions will uplift others when you help them to picture a brighter and better future.
• Humor. Stress shuts us down to new ideas and experiences. By keeping things light, you remind others to keep smiling. In turn, it will reduce stress and increase satisfaction, productivity, and performance.