The painter wanted to know what other people thought about his work. He put one of his best paintings in the town square, along with a message that read, “If you identify a mistake, mark it with an X.” When he returned, the painting was covered in X markings. His heart was broken, and he felt that perhaps he wasn’t as talented as he thought he was. A friend suggested that he repaint the same piece and display it again with a different note: “If you find a mistake, please fix it. The brushes and paint are provided.” However, when he returned, the painting had not changed. Many people are quick to criticize, but few are capable of improving things. Criticism is easy, contribution is difficult. So, before allowing others’ opinions to define your worth, ask yourself if they are providing answers or simply pointing out flaws.
