You've come to the right place
In the perennial quest for success, encountering even well-meaning detractors is almost as predictable as the shifting seasons. Yet, as entrepreneurially spirited souls, we courageously sow the seeds of our passion projects, despite the voices whispering, "You can't."
If I had listened to everyone who said you can't, it can't happen, or accepted the impossible- I would NOT be where I am today. It's not always a grand scheme to sabotage us, not at all. Oftentimes it isn't malicious or intentionally discouraging. Sometimes commentary like this is a fear-induced protective instinct, a bias towards failure, and a dread of potential disappointment. These are human emotions we all grapple with. Yet, sometimes others' perspectives are coloured by their experiences and fears, not ours.
They may not share your inner knowing, understanding and intuition. This is where it helps to have a compassionate witness or an objective sounding board. Disparaging claims could echo with authority, potentially impacting our budding confidence. However, we must acknowledge the distorting mirror that their feedback often is, reflecting more about their fears than our potential failures.
This brings us to the potent question: How do we identify the voices worthy of attention?
The answer lies in the objectivity and balance of the advice received. Those offering a fair assessment of the pros and cons, complete with offered solutions, should be the compass.
Conversely, we need to understand that the "tall poppy syndrome" often skews the perceptions of our critics. This societal phenomenon, which targets high achievers for their success, frequently paints a distorted image of our efforts. Quicker than a mosquito at a blood bank, these comments can do more than a little damage if we let them.
Tall Poppy Syndrome has been especially widespread in Australia. Nearly 70 per cent of those recently surveyed said they believe their fellow Australians regard ambition as a negative trait.
Evaluate Their Perspective - Consider the individual's viewpoint. Is it objective, balanced, and replete with potential solutions? Genuine guidance frequently carries these hallmarks.
Identify the Undertones - Listen for undertones of the "tall poppy syndrome". If criticisms seem targeted towards your success rather than aimed at improvement, they are likely skewed by this societal bias.
Assess Intent - Discern the underlying intent. Are they genuinely concerned about your progress or unintentionally discouraging you?
Positive Language - seek out the voices of those who are positive and reaffirming but aren't afraid to get curious and positively challenge you.
Inventum Populus Gigantus Syndromeus -Watch for passive-aggressive rash break out. Those afflicted can't handle seeing others succeed or try to. Symptoms include eye-rolling, sarcastic compliments, and heavy sighs.
If you take on negative feedback; you will end up more tangled than Rapunzel's hair in a ceiling fan. It just isn't worth it. Instead, take it from someone who knows; life is too short to live with regret and the haunting "what if" can overshadow our sense of fulfilment.
The fulfilment part? The "I gave it everything I had" feeling pales in comparison. What if you don't? Well, my darling, what if you do? If it doesn’t work out; know you gave it your all.
Seek out those who can offer objective insights and genuine support, and let your passion be your guiding light.
While some may see scarcity, I believe in the abundance of opportunities. There's ample room for everyone to succeed and create their own path to fulfilment.
So, raise your glasses, my friends, and let's toast to those who choose to lift others instead of trying to bring them down. Let us all be the tall poppies, for the world is far more vibrant and beautiful when filled with blooming dreams. Side effects may include increased happiness, stronger friendships, and general well-being.
Source:
https://www.newportinstitute.com/resources/mental-health/tall-poppy-syndrome/
