“Some people find fault like there’s a reward for it.” ~ Zig Ziglar
Finding fault seems to be quite the popular hobby. Everyone is able to find fault and many appear to indulge in it in every single way possible. From finding fault in others, be it their behavior, choices, appearance, mood, opinions, etc., to finding fault with society, politics, public figures, nature, etc., to finding fault with themselves for all of the exact same things. Whether it’s picking apart one’s self or anyone or thing else, it can feel like everyone is doing it, and seeking out those faults like there is a reward for doing so.
As someone who has fallen time and again into the incredibly negative habit of picking out and demeaning myself for my own perceived flaws and faults, I am here to tell you that there is no reward in it. None whatsoever! The only results of finding and focusing on faults are the negative, heavy, self-loathing feelings that simply don’t need to be given any power.
Just like the Internet trolls that lurk about seeking attention for their negative, fault finding nastiness, you can have an internal troll that does the same thing. It’s that hostile, noxious voice that tells you that you have no talent, that you’re not pretty/handsome enough, not likeable, not this or that, not good enough. And the more you listen to that hateful voice, the bolder it gets, the more faults you find and the worse you feel. Just like those obnoxious Internet trolls.
Well, just like those vile trolls, if you don’t feed them they will leave. If you deprive them of what they are looking for, which is acknowledgement of all those supposed faults, they will disappear. I mean, really, who is the absolute judge of what is a fault and what isn’t? Of what’s good and bad, this or that? Only you are, and only for yourself.
If you stop seeking out faults like there is a reward in it and instead focus on positives, then you actually find a true reward. You will find your own self-respect, self-love, and a positive, joyful way of being and who doesn’t want that? I know it’s what I want and so when I find myself picking on my perceived faults, I stop and realize that I don’t want to give anymore power to that nasty inner troll and I ignore it to make it know that it’s not wanted here. Why add to the mire of negativity and ugliness when with the same energy I can generate positivity and delight? For me the choice and it’s rewards are obvious, but it did take some time to fully internalize and recognize.
How about you? Do you sometimes find yourself seeking out faults like there is a reward in it? If so, maybe take a moment to stop and realize that there is so much more to life then picking out fault, whether they are your own or others. It can change your perspective and your life!
Namaste ~ Ella
~ Affirmation Mondays are positive words of wisdom, insight and joy to add a bit of cheer to the start of your week and any day you need a bit of a pick-me-up! For even more inspiration please check out my Affirmation Mondays Pinterest Board and my Quote-spirational Board!
~ Check my Instagram on Mondays for Inspirational quotes and every day for a little jolt of happiness!
Lawhimsy 