Criticism

COMFORTABLE CRITICISM

Read the conversation between Maria and Greta. How do you think Greta feels after Maria speaks to her?

Maria: Greta, I have something important to tell you.

Greta: What is it?

Maria: I like you very much, Greta. You are a great roommate. There is only one thing I have a problem with. I don't like it when you leave your dirty dishes in the sink for more than a day. Could you please try to wash your dishes more often?

Pretend that you are Greta. How would you feel after hearing Maria's criticism of you?

a) I would feel sad because Maria really doesn't like me.
b) I would feel happy that Maria cares about me.
c) I would feel angry with Maria.
d) I wouldn't feel sad, happy or angry at all. I would want to change the way I act if it bothered my friend.

There is no "correct" answer here. "D" might be the best answer because it means that when you hear criticism as well as kind words, you don't feel sad, angry or happy. You use others criticism of your habits in a good way and change things about yourself if you need to.