Criticism and Compliment

Sometimes criticism to such an extent you internalize

That a genuine compliment comes as a surprise

Making you remember strengths that are your own

Qualities that you had previously shown

But had forgotten about and buried deep inside

The well of self-doubt, you were trying to hide

What you thought were your weaknesses, while all along

You were downplaying your strengths based on an assumption wrong

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The criticism stung, and it stayed with you

You let your self-esteem slide with it too

The compliment you received brought you out of your shell

You realized that you were actually doing your job well

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A message your fragile self-esteem has received

Don’t let your self-worth depend on how you are perceived