It is completely normal for people to criticize others around them from time to time – we’re all guilty of it! Criticism can be a natural way of letting off steam and making others aware that you are unhappy with their behaviour. In fact, criticism – if done constructively – can actually be productive and helpful to the person being criticized. However, some people are constantly critical of other people and seem unable to make allowances for even the smallest of “faults”. This kind of criticism is destructive, both to the person it is aimed at and to the person who is doing the criticizing.
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Are you always finding fault with the people around you?
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Do you find it hard to accept other people’s shortcoming?
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Is it difficult for you to see the good in other?
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Do other people find you judgmental?
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Do you think you can sometimes come across as arrogant?
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Do you think you are always right?
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Are you easily irritated by other people’s habits and mannerisms?
People who are overly critical of other people are usually very unhappy themselves and are simply projecting that onto everyone else they come into contact with. Here are some common emotions that cause some people to be overly critical:
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Being frustrated with their own lives
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Jealousy of others
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Having unmet goals
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General unhappiness
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Anger
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Self- loathing
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Feeling taken advantage of by other people
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Feeling unlucky or cursed in some way
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Inferiority complex
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Lack of self-confidence
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Bach Original Flower Remedies such as Beech promotes tolerance and a sense of compassion and unity with others. Take this when you feel angry, critical and intolerant towards other people. The Bach Original Flower Remedy Vine can help if you feel like you might be being a little tyrannical towards others. You can also try Rescue Remedy which is a blend of five Bach flower essences especially designed to help you cope with stressful situations. (Always read the label on a product.)∏
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Acupuncture can improve wellbeing and restore balance.
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Reiki is said to help aid you.
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The Alexander Technique could be beneficial in managing your emotions in a healthier way so you are less likely to criticize.
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Body balance work such as yoga and shiatsu can help your body and mind connect in a way that promotes general happiness and a sense of wellbeing. If you can become more content in yourself, then you will be less likely to criticize others.
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Aromatherapy can help you to unwind and let go. Try putting a few drops of jasmine, juniper, lavender or ylang-ylang oil in your bath.
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Think before you speak – the next time you open your mouth to criticize someone or something, take a moment and really think about why you want to criticize that person. Is it them that has the problem, or is it more to do with you?
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Re-frame – if an overly critical thought crosses your mind, try to think of something nice about that person to counteract it. It will make you feel better and could improve your feelings towards that person. This is very helpful, especially if the person is someone you love!
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Improve your self-image – if you are unhappy with your life, why not take active steps towards changing it, rather than blaming others for your situation? Exercise, take up a hobby or revamp your wardrobe – do anything that will make you feel good!
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Exercise and nutrition – exercising and eating well will enable you to be the best possible version of yourself you can be. Exercise increases the production of endorphins which will make you feel better and you’ll be less likely to criticize others.
∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision.
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