Another piece could be, not to let 'perfect' (which is often defined by one's own limitations or doubts) be the enemy of the good. Instead noting failures of others to live up to their principles, how about affirming the ways they do live up to them, and then consider asking empathetically about the "flaws" (perhaps with an acknowledgment that "I, too share a struggle to, say, recycle everything that comes into my home, especially with I realize the limits my local recycling service impose.")
Thank you for this reminder. So true. It took me a long time--and I am getting better--to not give off negative energy to those who point out inconsistencies they feel they detected in me. This is indeed an opportunity for self-reflection as a result of their opinion but also should I find myself triggered by their criticism, I must then ask myself if I have unresolved past issues that need to be addressed.
Here's a comment from a reader:
Great post, Karen!
Another piece could be, not to let 'perfect' (which is often defined by one's own limitations or doubts) be the enemy of the good. Instead noting failures of others to live up to their principles, how about affirming the ways they do live up to them, and then consider asking empathetically about the "flaws" (perhaps with an acknowledgment that "I, too share a struggle to, say, recycle everything that comes into my home, especially with I realize the limits my local recycling service impose.")
Thank you for this reminder. So true. It took me a long time--and I am getting better--to not give off negative energy to those who point out inconsistencies they feel they detected in me. This is indeed an opportunity for self-reflection as a result of their opinion but also should I find myself triggered by their criticism, I must then ask myself if I have unresolved past issues that need to be addressed.