It seems these days everyone is a critic. Social media has given people the platform to give their opinion (whether it's wanted or not) about everything.

But is it really useful? I'm a fan of constructive criticism delivered in a way to help me improve. However I think just telling people you don't like them or something about them or something they did just because it makes you feel superior.... what's the point of that?

We need to learn to be more constructive in our approach when we critique others instead of destructive. Because we're all here on a unique journey and none of us are without flaws!

Yesterday I celebrated my birthday.  And the past year leading up to my birthday, I've been thinking a lot about all of the things I've accomplished, all the things I've learned, mistakes I've made, people I've known, people I've lost and how time is dwindling away slowly but surely.  It's brought me to a revelation, it's something I've heard before but now I feel and believe it with every fiber of my being. It is no longer a cliche but something that has become my daily affirmation and my life mantra:

NOTHING LASTS FOREVER. . . 

No matter how much we want something to last or how tight we try and hold on- nothing lasts forever: 

• If you're struggling with an issue or going through a rough patch it will NOT last forever even though things might seem hopeless at the time, trust me in a month or two or definitely by this time next year- you won't even remember why you were so stressed. We often blow  things totally out of proportion and we end up distracted and doubtful. Let it go, learn from it and move on!
  

• Life goes on and often it does so without those we love. People breakup, divorce happens, friendships fade and the hardest of all is death. The people in our life are not ours to keep indefinitely. That is why it is important to love people when you have the chance, tell them how you feel and just enjoy the moments you share. Those moments might add up to 30 years or 3 months. . .you never know. . . so just live, laugh and love while you can.
  

• Our time is limited and none of us know the exact hour that we could take our last breath, which is why it is critical to not waste time on things, people and places that don't matter. Dream big and work hard to leave a legacy for those who come after you! But do it now, we've got to stop procrastinating or waiting for the "right time". Start taking steps today that will get you where you need to be tomorrow! 
  

One of the things most creative people have in common is that we have a very sensitive nature. And sometimes that sensitivity can transform into self doubt. We question whether or not we are worthy or even capable. It's especially hard when there are certain expectations from your audience.  Creating anything is such a personal experience for an artist whether you're a writer, singer, dancer, sculptor, etc. You create something and if people don't like it, the first thing you think is they don't like YOU. But when you create something you have to disconnect yourself from it (much like cutting an umbilical cord) and allow people to experience it in their own way. What you create will NOT be for everyone but it will touch someone and even it if just one person "gets it", that makes it all worthwhile.

Everyone thinks they have haters. If someone doesn't like you- or you THINK they don't like you- if they don't like your photo's, follow you on social media or comment on how much weight you've lost then they are a "hater".

Hmmm. . . .I'm not so sure about that.  Consider this:

1.  Maybe they didn't see the social media post you so carefully orchestrated. Perhaps they weren't even online that day or that hour.

2.  Maybe they can't really tell you've lost that much weight- maybe you haven't.

3.  Maybe they don't agree with what you did or said. (it's their prerogative) 

4.   Maybe they never like ANYBODY'S posts.

5. WHO CARES?

Don't get me wrong, there are definitely people out there who are not necessarily your biggest fans (that's life) but I'm willing to bet we're talking one or two people not a whole army of folks who are secretly plotting your demise. But what we focus on grows . . .so, don't focus so much on your so-called haters, focus more on the people who love and support you. Give them your time, energy and positive thoughts. And let the haters continue to hate. Besides hating on other people is more about what they are lacking and has absolutely nothing to do with you.