The villain’s censure is extorted praise.

— Alexander Pope

LEADERSHIP

WHAT THIS MEANS

Being criticised by someone whose standards you would never want tells you something useful. If a person committed to doing things badly finds fault with you, the fault is usually that you are not like them. Not all disapproval is equal, and taking it all equally seriously is a reliable way to be governed by the worst people you know. Consider the source before you consider the content.

When criticism lands, spend a moment on whether you would take this person’s advice about anything else. If not, note the objection, learn what little there is to learn, and carry on.

A QUESTION TO SIT WITH

Whose disapproval have you earned that you should be glad about?

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