Let me light up your life

"Radiate light, not heat," was the advice from coach James McLeod. Easier said than done but it certainly got me thinking.


Just how does one generate light (on the [problem) without the accompanying heat (the sting of criticism)? 


Here's a shot at light-giving.


To begin with, I think it is critical that our intention must be in the right place. If we intend to help, we would be throwing light onto the problem with a certain kindness, wisdom and/or understanding, as our wish is to bring the matter to a happy conclusion. However, if our intention is to show how much better we are compared to the other, then whatever we say would be perceived as an admonishment or a criticism. Serving only to make the other draw back from the heat defensively.


And a large dose of empathy would certainly help in our light radiation. When we step into the shoes of the other, look at the world through their eyes, we would think and act differently. Perhaps our words would somewhat gentler, more illuminating and certainly more focused on providing a solution than chewing on the problem. 


Copying a famous phrase from the Bible "Let there be light."