Critics Are a Part of the Game: Embrace Their Presence

1. Fans and Critics: Two Sides of Influence

In any sport, the presence of fans is inseparable from the game. Players thrive in the energy of a stadium, whether it's filled with cheers or boos. The same applies to life: critics, much like fans, are a natural part of the journey. Their presence is an indicator of your influence.

2. The Connection Between Influence and Criticism

Just as a popular athlete attracts both supporters and detractors, a successful individual often garners both admiration and criticism. The key insight is this: both fans and critics are proof of your impact. Fans cheer because they admire you, and critics speak out because they are affected by what you do.

If you weren’t influential, why would anyone care?

3. Why Criticism Happens

Consider this analogy: People who dislike politics tend to avoid discussing politicians or parliamentary debates. But those influenced by politics—whether positively or negatively—actively engage with it.

Similarly, critics engage with you because your actions resonate with them, even if they don’t align with your perspective. It’s your influence, not indifference, that draws their attention.

4. A Lesson from Mahavira

As the Bhagwan Mahavira said:

"Never be angry with your critics. They are people who are impacted by you, even if they lack the courage to join or support you."

This profound wisdom reminds us that criticism is often a reflection of admiration or envy. Those who lack the courage to support you may instead choose to criticize, but their attention still signifies your importance.

5. Reframing Criticism as a Positive Sign

The next time you face criticism, don’t let it dishearten you. Instead, see it as proof that you are doing something worth noticing. A stadium filled with both fans and critics means you are in the game and making an impact.

Critics are not your enemies—they are part of the process. Embrace them as a sign of your influence and success. In life, as in sports, the louder the crowd, the bigger the game.