I’ve been working on this web site for a little over two months now, and I’ve received a tremendous amount of support from friends, family, and colleagues. The feedback has been very helpful and I am thankful to everyone who has helped me so far. I’ve also encountered my fair share of people who have tried to discourage me from continuing with this web site. I’ve always been aware that there are people out there who are negative and try to hold or push others down. These are the “You can’t do it!” people.

Constructive vs. Destructive Criticism

There is a difference between constructive criticism and criticizing to push people down. Constructive criticism is honest advice that is given with the intent to help. It may not be pleasant to hear, but it is information that is meant to aid you. Most of the people I have asked for opinions about this site have provided constructive criticism. I am really appreciative of everyone’s opinions. Because of the input I’ve received, I’ve learned about the perception of this web site, my writing, the strengths of my site, and some improvements I can make.

“You can’t do it!” people are negative, pessimistic, and generally make people around them worse. If there is such a thing as the complete opposite of a leader, “You can’t do it!” people are it. They are incapable of creating their own vision and working toward achieving it. When “You can’t do it!” people see someone with a vision, they seek to bring that person down in order to feel better about themselves. They list reasons why you can’t do things. They point out your flaws or weaknesses. They question why you even want to do something in the first place. But they also create adversity, and you can use that to your advantage.

How to deal with adversity

I’ve encountered many “You can’t do it!” people in just these few months while working on this web site. There have been more than I anticipated. I expected to have obstacles and barriers since I really don’t have much experience with designing web sites or writing. I’ve encountered opposition from people regarding the design of this web site, the font I use, and even the colors. One particular example stands out to me; someone who I thought was a friend of mine has even challenged why I’m starting this blog. He also bluntly stated how he would not support my web site. That’s tough to hear. Even my creation and use of the word “leadee” has been laughed at! It doesn’t bother me, because “You can’t do it!” people are not my target audience anyway. They don’t get it, and many never will. I’m going to concentrate on those who want to improve themselves and develop as leaders.

“You can’t do it!” people create additional adversity for those who are striving to reach their goals, vision, or dreams. They may stress you out. They may get under your skin. They may discourage you. Use it as fuel. Prove them wrong. Keep working towards your vision and don’t let them bring you down. Focus on people that support you and want you to succeed. As a leader you will continuously face adversity. It’s important you learn how to deal with it and use it as motivation.

There will always be people who want to knock you off track. They may distract you temporarily, but it’s important you get back on track. People that see you working towards your goals or vision will try to hold you back or push you down because they see you’re well on your way to achieving what you set out to. It’s important to just ignore these people. They will always be there. If you want to take something positive from the presence of “You can’t do it!” people it’s this: if they are around, you must be doing something right.

Remember: