For decades, our societies were curated with a semblance of decorum and manners. Criticism was left to the few who thought they knew more than the rest and that it was acceptable to tear others down. Those who wanted to be heard had soapbox venues, the office water cooler, their club or neighborhood pub.
Today, the flow of criticism, whether personal, political, or professional seeps through every channel, from education to business. Social media gave the cowards an anonymous outlet to belittle companies, to bully the unprotected, to alter truth with fake news, false learnings and adulterated history.
Criticism (from the Greek word meaning “to judge”) is the device when misused that can destroy dreams, hope, aspirations, friendships, relationships, and families. Covert criticism can unravel cultures, disrupt faith, overturn philosophies. Constructive criticism is an oxymoron.
If you want to improve life, at any and all levels, admire what is right. Admiration, from the Latin word meaning “wonderful,” is more than an honest compliment or a five-star rating or a large tip for good service. Admiration grants life. Admiration can strengthen the desire to create, to be educated, to help self and others. Society will follow where attention is placed. The more that good and honest and transparent and kind actions are admired, there will be more of the same. Unlike criticism, admiration actually creates life. Admiration is free to create and share. It is as beneficial to the giver as it is to the recipient.
For 25 years, Christie & Co through effective and strategic branding and communications, has built brands that matter through a deep admiration for ethical goals and dreams. If you would like a good dose of admiration, please give us a call. Life will be better, together.
–Gillian