Life can be quite ironic at times. When it seems that people are not helping you or even working against you, it can be a blessing in disguise. When you are receiving help and support, it could even be to your detriment in the long term.

Let me give you some context. I was once told that I wouldn’t be able to achieve one of my career goals for some time. That I was years off achieving this goal. Instead of discourage me, this comment served as a challenge. As vain as it sounds, I wanted to prove this person wrong as a silent personal victory. At the time, I had a lot of friends and peers who were encouraging me yet their support did not motivate me as much as this person’s doubt.

This is why it is sometimes useful to use criticisms and judgement to help motivate you. A challenge – a task or situation that tests someone’s abilities – is healthy as it gives you an opportunity to prove yourself.

On the topic of proving oneself, I think that deeds are greater than words. I came across a quote that read “words betray, actions don’t”.

This is why my philosophy is to use criticism to make you better. I also think that praise or criticism should be welcome as external opinions can be more objective than our own perspective.