Sorry to use an often quoted line from the first Spiderman movie, but the truth is that all of us have great power within us. No, I am not suggesting that we have the ability to walk on walls or spin literal webs, but we do have the powers of words and attitude.
We have all probably used the phrase from childhood, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me.” That sentiment is only true if you let it be. However, many people do not have the ability to simply shrug off all negative comments to, or about them. They are therefore subject to the wounds that these words can create. Words can be used to either build people up, or to pull them down to the ground. Ironically, both methods can have the desired effect, or they can also have the direct opposite effect.
Some of the most successful people in the US have been interviewed for the book “Three Feet From Gold,” by Sharon L. Lechter and Greg S. Reid. Almost every one of the success icons in the book said that they used negative comments as their fuel to show what they were truly worth. That is a rare quality that sets winners apart from the majority of folks who let negativity seep into their minds and allow it to pull them into despair.
So it is plain that your only defense to negative comments – no matter how harsh – is your reaction to them. If this attitude is well developed, it is kind of like a superpower!
If you are the type of person that needs to make yourself feel better by pulling others down, then your successes will be hollow and fleeting. Your friendships will most likely be with others that feel the same way, or with folks who are easily controlled by you. You may have power, but it is negative, and doesn’t work on everyone. Good luck!
If you are the type of person who focuses first on the success and strength of those around you, your positive nature will be returned with strong friendships of meaning and purpose. You will most likely attract others who are positive, and enjoy your company for the right reasons. Congratulations, you just hit the superhero jackpot!
I know this may sound as if I recently read from a series of Marvel Comics, but it is actually an autobiographical commentary. In the short time that has passed since the start of our company, Get Results Marketing and Business Coaching, the feedback and energy we have enjoyed has been tremendous! Our mission from the start has been to provide tools for success for others by focusing on them first. We bring professional experts to you and we have seen an amazing amount of support. Frankly, it makes me feel pretty good about what we are doing.
There are plenty of people in this world who will tell you that you aren’t doing something right, or that you have seriously miscalculated. I choose to turn their words into my fuel for success. I hope you do too. We will be there to support your goals, and feel free to contact us if we can serve you in any way!
Make it a great week!
