Seeing Discouragement As a Blessing
Last modified 2 weeks, 3 days ago.
If someone ever tries to belittle you or put you down…
See it as a blessing!
I’ve been fortunate enough to be belittled and called stupid repeatedly in my life. To some people, I was stupid and easily brainwashed when I was young. Decades later, even after going to college and doing very well, I was still stupid. To them, I was just obeying my professors and still being brainwashed.
Sure, I can be temporarily discouraged, but not for long, and I will not allow myself to be defeated.
I can control my attitude. I can control how I respond. We all can.
Discouragement cannot stop us, nor should we need encouragement.
Yes, encouragement is beautiful. I love to give encouragement myself, however and whenever I can. But it’s nothing to rely on, nor is it necessary. If it happens, that’s great. It’s a pleasant boost. If not, the mission can still be completed.
But I am no glutton for punishment. I don’t recommend it.
Others are welcome to say their piece, or perhaps, spew their vile and vitriol at you. Once they have, don’t stick around, because too much negativity can be draining to anyone.
Use it as fuel for the fire, refocus, and move on. There’s nothing you need to do to these people, because they’re going nowhere, anyway. They’re wasting their energy and lives away.
When you’re focused, even discouragement can be a blessing.
POSTSCRIPT: Dealing with difficult people?
- Here’s Dr. Doug McGuff’s advice on how to deal with anti-social personalities.
- Also, Verbal Judo by Dr. George Thompson is a gem if your line of work requires you to deal with difficult people regularly. It could save your life.