Original Advice
“DONT: Don't reward criticism wrapped in kindness.”
No Treats For Sugar-Coated Barbs
Your hunger for precision makes you swallow poison if it’s labeled 'helpful.' You nod at 'just being honest' while someone files you down to fit their comfort. Every chuckle, thank-you, or quick fix you offer after a soft jab trains them to keep aiming. You’re not improving; you’re shrinking. Kindness that bruises is not kindness. Stop clapping for people who clip your wings.
Feedback with care has consent, specificity, reciprocity, and risk. It names what works, owns impact, offers repair. Criticism wrapped in charm dodges all that. It flatters your competence while claiming authority over your choices. When you smile and fix things, you subsidize their control. Break the loop. Neutral face. No fix. No follow-up. Let the awkwardness bloom until the message delivers itself.
Cosmic Context
You’re Mercury’s editor with Earth’s spine: built to discern, not to be managed. Aim your refinement inward; lend your standards only to what treats you cleanly.
Action
──────Say: 'Unasked feedback declined.' End the conversation.
✨ You are allowed to leave criticism unanswered and remain impeccable. ✨