Don't internalize criticism from "summary" of Surrounded by Narcissists by Thomas Erikson
Criticism is like a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can provide valuable feedback that helps us grow and improve. On the other hand, if we take criticism to heart and internalize it, it can have a detrimental effect on our self-esteem and mental well-being. This is especially true when dealing with narcissists, who are experts at dishing out harsh criticism disguised as "constructive feedback."When we internalize criticism, we absorb it as a reflection of our worth and value as a person. We start to believe that the negative things others say about us are true, even if they are baseless or exaggerated. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and low self-esteem. It's like carrying around a heavy burden on our shoulders, weighing us down and making us question our own worth. Narcissists are skilled at using criticism as a tool to manipulate and control others. They will often criticize us in subtle ways, making it seem like they are just trying to help us improve. However, their real intention is to break down our self-confidence and make us doubt ourselves. They thrive on making others feel small and insignificant, feeding off the power they gain from belittling those around them. To protect ourselves from the harmful effects of internalizing criticism, we must learn to recognize when someone's feedback is unjust or unfair. We need to develop a thick skin and realize that not all criticism is valid or constructive. It's important to take a step back and objectively evaluate the feedback we receive, rather than immediately accepting it as the truth. By learning to separate ourselves from the criticism we receive, we can maintain a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. We can choose to let the negative words of others bounce off us like water off a duck's back, rather than letting them seep into our minds and poison our thoughts. It's essential to remember that our value as individuals is not determined by the opinions of others, especially those who seek to tear us down for their own gain.
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