Page 269 - TAGR-Companion Text

EPILOGUE 269
336 offenders. It should be recognized as a crime (in reality it is a crime of the worst
337 nature), for any parent to build inferiority complexes in the mind of a child,
338 through unnecessary criticism. Employers who understand human nature, get the
339 best there is in men, not by criticism, but by constructive suggestion. Parents
340 may accomplish the same results with their children. Criticism will plant FEAR
341 in the human heart, or resentment, but it will not build love or affection.
342 SYMPTOMS OF THE FEAR OF CRITICISM
343 This fear is almost as universal as the fear of poverty, and its effects are just as
344 fatal to personal achievement, mainly because this fear destroys initiative, and
345 discourages the use of imagination.
346 The major symptoms of the fear are:
347 SELF-CONSCIOUSNESS. Generally expressed through nervousness, timidity
348 in conversation and in meeting strangers, awkward movement of the hands and
349 limbs, shifting of the eyes.
350 LACK OF POISE. Expressed through lack of voice control, nervousness in the
351 presence of others, poor posture of body, poor memory.
352 PERSONALITY. Lacking in firmness of decision, personal charm, and ability to
353 express opinions definitely. The habit of side-stepping issues instead of meeting
354 them squarely. Agreeing with others without careful examination of their
355 opinions.
356 INFERIORITY COMPLEX. The habit of expressing self-approval by word of
357 mouth and by actions, as a means of covering up a feeling of inferiority. Using
358 "big words" to impress others, (often without knowing the real meaning of the
359 words). Imitating others in dress, speech and manners. Boasting of imaginary
360 achievements. This sometimes gives a surface appearance of a feeling of
361 superiority.
362 EXTRAVAGANCE. The habit of trying to "keep up with the Joneses,"
363 spending beyond one's income.