Friends are those who enjoy your company and have no immediate plans for your improvement.
These are some of those kind of friends we have.
I had to wait to get into a good place before I brought this up. I was very judgmental myself, mostly of judgmental people, or strangers, whom ultimately I’m grateful to for the amazing opportunity to practice my patience, straightforwardness and apparently unlimited kindness.
While I like to be at peace with everyone, the reality is that we have different opinions and ways to share them, and different ways to behave under a variety of circumstances. And at times, it’s our responsibility to say something: to our employees, to our spouse, best friend, and for goodness sake, mostly to our own young children because it’s the best time to shape their character and attitude in society. But after that, use you good judgement and selectively share you wisdom with everyone, and be aware of whether or not they are ready to hear it or receive it.
Let’s respect other people’s space and opinion, trust them or at least don’t make it our own problem or focus to change them, as long it’s not a matter of life and death.
Assume positive intent
Set expectations
Ask for permission to speak freely
Think of the qualities of the people who’s company you enjoy most. Do they ever tell you what to do or how to do it? Do they correct you or give you guidance?
I am open to feedback, as long it’s not a pointless venting opportunity, either about something I or my friends are doing wrong in your opinion. That’s called plain judgement or gossip.