Some people often dispute anything that appears even slightly as a criticism or negative comment towards them. They justify and argue that it is not true, or they have excuses why this was an exception but, they never normally do that.
The cause of this irritating reaction is because of the need to be liked and accepted. The subconscious fear is that if there is any negative comment, one feels inferior or inadequate and that means the other person will reject them, so they defend their position. Of course, that only pushes the other away, even if they really had no issue to begin with.
The problem with this habit is that it goes totally unnoticed, and since justification is a big part of it, when pointed out, the person will deny that they justify, and then come up with reasons why this is not true; they are doing exactly what they are denying doing.
It can be dizzying to follow the pattern of a mind that lives in fear of seeing itself as it digs itself deeper into a hole trying to get out the other side.
The cure is always found in the problem, so we shall look at the real problem, which appears to be the fear of rejection, but actually is a belief in being unworthy.
Being like a cloud is the true solution. We must become free as a cloud in the sense that a cloud can be strong enough to block out the sun, yet a plane can fly through it without it being disturbed in the least. A cloud is also very secure in its own sense of self, which can be ever changing and adapting to the climate, but is comfortable with itself as it fits the circumstances. You simple cannot hurt a cloud, because it is not fixed on staying the same shape and size, but is ready at any time to accept change.
Being totally independent is simply not possible for a human being. We will always need someone for something, be that to help with food or shelter, or simply companionship. And so bear in mind that the goal of being like a cloud is not to be isolated, but rather to be content with oneself such that one can live and interact objectively.
This does not mean to accept yourself as you are, but rather accept that you are not worthy in your own eyes and to make the changes to become someone you are proud to be.
When living in a way that one is putting in effort to improve ones flaws, accepting negative comments or criticism, without falling into a panic that one is about to be sent off to a deserted island in the middle of the sea with no boat, becomes very easy.
In a way, it is actually quite simple in just a few steps:
1. Accept all comments without defending or rejecting or justifying, just listen. To be able to do this, know that your defence is counter productive, it is pushing people away rather than bringing them closer.
2. Know that every human makes mistakes, including yourself. Accepting what other people say about you makes them feel comfortable because they are met with a welcoming ear rather than a biting mouth. People like to be with other people who they are comfortable with. It is better to be wrong and accept criticism than to imagine you are right and fight about it. It’s much less tiring for everyone.
3. Refine your character so that you are no longer ashamed to be who you are.
The power to be able to hold yourself back from verbal retaliation is developed with this exercise:
