Читать книгу A Mind of Your Own - Betty Shine - Страница 44
ОглавлениеI do not resent criticism, even when, for the sake of emphasis, it parts for the time with reality.
WINSTON CHURCHILL
1874–1965
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM can plant a seed that, when nurtured, can bring about a transformation in our chosen career or hobbies. But negative criticism creates an aura of bitterness and resentment that can linger with us for ever. This is unforgivable, and can lead only to unhappiness and despair.
I have seen mediocre performances in the theatre blossom when sympathetic criticism had been given. The fact that someone cared had lifted the spirit and fired the imagination.
Visualisation: Having joined an advanced art class, you have just finished a picture and are sitting back trying to judge it objectively. Along comes the teacher, who takes one look and tells you that, in his opinion, it is a mess. He suggests that you tear it up and start again with a clean canvas. Totally humiliated, you try to do as he asks, but the hurt is deep and your mind is clouded. You are now incapable of the most simple task. You leave – with your painting.
You join a new art class. When the teacher looks at the painting, he tells you that he is most impressed with the unique way in which you use your imagination. He suggests that perhaps with a little discipline it could be so much better. You are inspired by his words and, after studying the picture, can see how creative his suggestions could be. As the images flow through your mind your brush works at the canvas and you know that something wonderful is going to happen. What a change those few words have made – so different from the first negative experience.
In this exercise, the reason for taking the picture away from the first class is to show that someone might eventually see your creation as a work of art. In this life, everything is so subjective.
You can change this exercise to suit your own career or hobby. The imagination has no boundaries and is the life-blood for the genius.
Whilst you were visualising, you could probably feel the pain and the joy caused by the contrasting criticisms. Remember that feeling when you are about to criticise others.
Affirmation: I am open to constructive criticism, but closed to negativity.
