As a creative person, I’ve received both good and bad criticism. At its worst, it kills the creative spirit. I know. I quit playing piano when I was fourteen because of negative criticism. At its best, it fosters creativity. It pushes the creative person to try something new, to explore different facets, to embrace the terror of the unknown. That criticism may be harsh at times, but it’s given in a spirit of good will. It isn’t given simply to be given.
Archives for June 2012
I’m Sorry
I try to keep my personal life, well, personal. It doesn’t receive air time on this blog unless it can be tied to whatever point I’m trying to make. I also know that if I want this blog to be a part of my business and marketing strategies that I need to keep things professional.
The Two Best Words
The two best words, albeit the hardest ones to say, are “I’m sorry.” It’s difficult to let the two words stand on their own. The temptation is to offer an explanation or to attempt to justify one’s actions.
Write Right: Less versus Fewer
I was at the store the other day. As often happens with this particular store, only two checkout lanes were open, and the lines became ever lengthier. The store manager didn’t open new lanes; instead, she said, “If you have less than five items, you can check out at Guest Services.”
Buck Up or Go Home
Maybe I need to work on my people skills, but I’m not overly fond of the “overwhelmed” excuse. It fails to impress. It smacks of whining, and whining was forbidden when I was a child.*
How I Tell a Story
When I write anything – be it a poem, blog post, or research paper – I am writing a story. I am sharing information in my own way. I am sharing it in order to persuade or to educate. I am sharing it based on my perspective. Thus, I highlight some details and neglect others. I’m not lying; I’m merely choosing the elements that are essential to my story.