Thanks to adaptive self-criticism, an individual can achieve a healthy problem-solving capacity.
Self-criticism is the name given to the ability to carry out a critical and objective judgment about one's own behaviors, reactions, feelings or actions.
To arrive at it, introspection work and an internal evaluation are required, appealing to intrapersonal intelligence in order to recognize personal successes and errors, identify one's own limits and become aware of strengths and weaknesses . It is essential, in this framework, to be honest with yourself .
This self-assessment with subsequent return or result can lead to an act of public apology with a general request for forgiveness for an attitude or statement that has been incorrect or inappropriate.
Examples of self-criticism
In practice, many examples of self-criticism are recognized that can be taken into consideration to know which are more convenient than others depending on the effects they have.
Reaching negative or limiting conclusions after a self-evaluation , specifically, is not constructive. Qualifying oneself with adjectives such as useless or incapable, to indicate two specific alternatives, conditions future actions, predisposes one to pessimism and the conviction that all effort is in vain, leading to devaluation . Expressions or phrases such as "Evidently I am not suitable for this position" , "I am a disaster!" belong to this set! I am ashamed of failing again and again" and "How could I have been so clumsy? I hope I don't fail again." As can be seen from reality, excessive self-criticism and being too demanding of oneself only drives displeasure, self-punishment, discomfort, low self-esteem and insecurity at an individual level.
With adaptive or constructive self-criticism , meanwhile, it is possible to glimpse a prosperous and enriching horizon even if adversities appear because, with tolerance and patience , sufficient strength and emotional resources are achieved to overcome problems. The future is faced with more determination, practical wisdom, hope, the capacity for forgiveness and energy when someone becomes aware of their chances of solving or doing a certain thing better. «I made a mistake and I learned: I trust that next time I will surprise by giving my best» , «I admit my responsibility in this defeat, I promise to correct everything that is necessary and have revenge» and «I deserve a new opportunity to prove everything "my potential after my mistake" are part of the sayings that arise when reviewing oneself internally, detecting weak points and wanting to reinvent oneself for the better, always from love and respect for oneself.
In any context or area, self-criticism is useful: from the most intimate sphere in order to achieve an objective vision of oneself, through an analysis of behavior and construction of ties to detect whether or not authenticity is achieved in relationships and an optimal connection with others. Also on a professional, student or work level, it helps to have the habit of making self-criticism with the purpose of promoting both the development of skills and the overcoming of obstacles, as well as to achieve and maintain an emotional balance that allows one to live fully.
To overcome self-criticism and develop internally, it is advisable to exercise self-awareness and cultivate compassion for yourself.
Importance
Self-criticism is important due to the valuable role it plays in the process of evolution or personal growth. Formulating it sensibly and with good will, it becomes, based on self-acceptance and the commitment to correct possible errors, an effective tool for learning and personal improvement.
Thanks to it, self-awareness is promoted and a change in mentality is stimulated that translates into better daily actions and positive habits that generate multiple benefits.
By dedicating time to self-criticism and taking advantage of it in order to modify everything that distances you from your goals, you demonstrate respect for yourself and others, maturity, mental flexibility and humility . It is a process that should not be gone through with intentions of judging, reproaching or blaming oneself, but rather with open-mindedness , empathy and full awareness towards an evolution or transformation that is essential to being, day after day, a better person.
To evolve and grow as a person, it is suggested to appeal to adaptive self-criticism and strengthen resilience on an emotional level.
Resources to enhance self-criticism
To enhance the development of constructive self-criticism and promote positive, sincere and objective internal dialogue , there is an interesting variety of resources available.
There is a wide range of informative bibliography , digital publications full of advice, self-knowledge tests and self-management and self-analysis applications.
Seminars and workshops (both in-person and virtual) are also usually taught and organized that aim to teach tactics to learn to know oneself internally and manage constructive self-criticism .
"Your inner critic is wrong (and some other truths about creativity" , to mention a reference material for guidance purposes, is a book signed by Danielle Krysa recommended as a guide to overcome the creative block and promote the artistic process. Another work to Take into account belongs to the production of Mary Welford and has been named, in Spanish, "The power of self-compassion. Put an end to self-criticism and build self-confidence."