Learn the difference between criticism and sharing your feelings.

The NAWLS Small Bite for today is

Learn the difference between criticism and sharing your feelings.

It's easy to slip into judging others. In fact, it's human nature. But, when judging others turns into criticism, you can harm your relationships and become a negative influence.Did criticism ever help you? Probably not.

When someone's behaviour affects you negatively, instead of criticizing them, the healthiest thing you do is share with them how their behaviour affects you -  as kindly as possible.

For example, you can say, "When you eat a huge bowl of ice cream day after day, I feel so anxious and fearful. I am afraid your unhealthy food choices will make you sick, and the thought of losing you breaks my heart."

Action for the day:

Pay attention to your thoughts and words today, Try to share your feelings about things that affect you without criticizing.

© 2007, Katie Jay. All rights reserved.