Chapter 1: The Gift of Criticism

Embracing the sting of criticism can be a liberating experience. Recently, I found myself unexpectedly thrilled when a critic rated my training session at zero out of ten. Yes, you read that correctly—zero.

This shocking rating stirred a sense of joy and freedom within me. After years spent seeking validation and fearing disapproval, this critic’s harsh judgment forced me to confront my reliance on external approval. It became clear: I needed to break free from this unhealthy dependency.

The realization hit me hard; I could no longer live my life measuring my worth based on the opinions of others.

"This is a matter of survival—either I release this habit or let it consume me."

For too long, I had been entrapped by my craving for affirmation, constantly yearning for positive feedback. I had endured countless lukewarm receptions, often presenting in situations where the audience had little interest in my input.

Most participants in my sessions were mandated to attend, often demonstrating their lack of enthusiasm. Viewing this scenario through a different lens, it was clear to me now that forcing training on individuals who do not value it was a recipe for disaster.

In the past, such a setup led to my own disappointment time and again.

“Never answer an unasked question” is a piece of wisdom I received long ago, and it resonated deeply with me. Yet, in the face of organizational demands, I felt powerless to change the situation. Fortunately, I’ve now decided to only engage with those who genuinely seek out my training.

This decision marks a positive turning point. I can now dismiss the zero rating as a reflection of the rater rather than myself. While many attendees were satisfied with my session, the starkness of that zero still stung, especially since I believed the training had gone well.

As I processed the critique, fear crept in—was I truly so misguided?

Previously, I would have fumed silently, pretending to be unaffected while internally grappling with the sting of such feedback. Now, I’ve learned to embrace and analyze the emotions that arise from negative experiences, transforming them into valuable insights.

Section 1.1: Mining the Darkness

I’ve come to understand that darkness can yield valuable lessons. With time and reflection, I welcomed the emotions that surfaced—fear, grief, sadness, rage, shame, humiliation, and dismay.

Each layer of feeling revealed deeper truths about myself.

I allowed these feelings to take their course, inviting them to be acknowledged and expressed.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Treasures Within

Through this process, I discovered invaluable treasures: freedom, playfulness, inner strength, and above all, love—unconditional and all-encompassing.

This experience was a reflection of my vibrational state, demonstrating that I can now comfortably navigate my emotions. The remnants of discontent are mere echoes of a past self that was often stressed and anxious.

Understanding that I created this experience empowers me. It mirrors my growth and sheds light on my evolving purpose, which centers around joy, presence, and love—an unconditional love that exists beyond judgment.

Chapter 2: Loving the Critic

The first video, "Love Your Critics," emphasizes the idea that criticism can lead to personal growth and empowerment. It encourages viewers to embrace their critics as a catalyst for positive change.

In the second video, "Brené Brown: Why Your Critics Aren't The Ones Who Count," the discussion centers around the importance of focusing on self-acceptance rather than external validation.

I yearn to love because it's the only source of genuine happiness, regardless of external circumstances.

Learning to appreciate my critics, especially the harsh ones, has been a transformative journey. Their opinions have led me to a newfound clarity and focus.

I now recognize that my well-being is secure, and we can never truly "get it wrong" because growth is a continuous journey.

I celebrate the opportunity to connect with my inner strength, guidance, and alignment.

This journey of self-discovery has birthed a more stable, grounded version of myself, allowing me to align with joy.

Ultimately, my addiction to approval has faded, and I am grateful for the lessons taught by my critics.

Now, I am free to be authentically me.