"There is only one way to avoid criticism: Do nothing, say nothing and be nothing" - Aristotle
What a powerful quotation to start our week. Criticism is undoubtedly something we all have had experience with. I know no one who has not been on both ends of judgement. How do we change this dynamic? As ye sows, so shall ye reap. In other words: we receive what we put out there.
Although I have experienced all kinds of discrimination in my life, today I want to talk about something in particular. Aristotle is telling us not to worry about those armchair critics who just sit there, do nothing and express opinions on others. Often that comes from someone who is unhappy in their own lives and they have their own processes to get through. Their comments belong to them, not to you. There is however a very valuable criticism out there. If we believe others can contribute to our evolution, those “teachers” come into our lives. I always tell my vocal students to hire the best musicians they can afford, especially when starting out. Then I add, “Listen to everything they play and make a note of everything they say.” Sometimes we don’t want to hear comments but if we can look at those comments unemotionally and factually, we may find there is in fact a great contribution therein. Recognize when words are offered with respect. Always remember to be respectful yourself when choosing your words too.
Everyone is a critic and talk is cheap. You have the power to create your reality every day. Let yourself be inspired by those around you, but compare yourself to no one. The only way to become the best of who you are is to look within. So look inside and be proud to be who you are.
Namaste!
Bianca
This personal blog was written by Bianca Pittoors. You may “share” it in its entirety. I respectfully request that you respect it as the intellectual property that it is. Thank you! All photos by Bianca Pittoors unless noted otherwise.
Bianca Pittoors & Marc Langis are Bianca Basso. Creators of original music with a vintage flavor, they are distinctive in their contemporary style.
Marc Langis' seal of approval! It's really in his smile ;)
What a powerful quotation to start our week. Criticism is undoubtedly something we all have had experience with. I know no one who has not been on both ends of judgement. How do we change this dynamic? As ye sows, so shall ye reap. In other words: we receive what we put out there.
Although I have experienced all kinds of discrimination in my life, today I want to talk about something in particular. Aristotle is telling us not to worry about those armchair critics who just sit there, do nothing and express opinions on others. Often that comes from someone who is unhappy in their own lives and they have their own processes to get through. Their comments belong to them, not to you. There is however a very valuable criticism out there. If we believe others can contribute to our evolution, those “teachers” come into our lives. I always tell my vocal students to hire the best musicians they can afford, especially when starting out. Then I add, “Listen to everything they play and make a note of everything they say.” Sometimes we don’t want to hear comments but if we can look at those comments unemotionally and factually, we may find there is in fact a great contribution therein. Recognize when words are offered with respect. Always remember to be respectful yourself when choosing your words too.
Everyone is a critic and talk is cheap. You have the power to create your reality every day. Let yourself be inspired by those around you, but compare yourself to no one. The only way to become the best of who you are is to look within. So look inside and be proud to be who you are.
Namaste!
Bianca
This personal blog was written by Bianca Pittoors. You may “share” it in its entirety. I respectfully request that you respect it as the intellectual property that it is. Thank you! All photos by Bianca Pittoors unless noted otherwise.
Bianca Pittoors & Marc Langis are Bianca Basso. Creators of original music with a vintage flavor, they are distinctive in their contemporary style.
Marc Langis' seal of approval! It's really in his smile ;)