The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Criticism vs Admiration

Aug 22, 2024

Why do we often critique excellence instead of admiring it? Jealousy and insecurity can cloud our appreciation for talent in sports, academia, and the arts. Rather than focusing on the negative, we should celebrate hard work and the discipline behind greatness. Embracing a culture of admiration can inspire personal growth and encourage us to cultivate excellence in our own lives.

07:03

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Quick takeaways

Criticism often arises from jealousy and insecurity, leading us to overlook the hard work behind others' achievements.

Embracing a mindset of admiration encourages personal growth and fosters a supportive environment that values excellence.

Deep dives

Embracing Admiration Over Critique

The discussion highlights the tendency to critique others instead of appreciating their excellence. Often, when confronted with someone’s achievements, people react with jealousy or skepticism, downplaying their accomplishments by pointing out perceived flaws or disadvantages. This behavior stems from a critical mindset that prioritizes comparison and competition over admiration. By recognizing and celebrating excellence in various fields, individuals can foster a more positive and supportive environment that encourages growth and appreciation.

Embracing Excellence and Avoiding Criticism

7min

When we encounter excellence, what prompts us to critique rather than admire?

Fr. Mike suggests that this tendency often stems from jealousy and insecurity. He says humans are made to admire all that is praiseworthy. When we witness remarkable talent in athletics, academics, or the arts, we should take the opportunity to commend the hard work and discipline that leads to greatness.

God made us to appreciate excellence and work to cultivate it in our own lives.

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