Spare the criticism, but a timely complaint is okay

“I’ve been all over the world and I’ve never seen a statue of a critic.”
― Leonard Bernstein

Don’t confuse complaints with criticism.

Relationships and organizations can flourish with a steady stream of legitimate complaints given at the right time and with the right tone (let’s call it feedback).

Or put another way…

A complaint says, “Something is wrong and needs to be fixed.”

Criticism says, “Something is wrong with you and you need to be fixed.”

Which would you prefer?

The ONE THING for today: Be willing to give and receive complaints if it points to improvement, but spare everyone the criticism even if you’re right.

Photo by Valentin B. Kremer on Unsplash