In life, it's essential to maintain emotional balance regardless of how others perceive us. This means that whether someone criticizes or praises you, your internal state should remain steady and unaffected by external opinions. Such stability helps in maintaining a clear mindset and making objective decisions.
The deeper meaning behind this statement lies in understanding the transient nature of praise and criticism. Both are fleeting judgments based on perceptions at a particular moment; they do not reflect an eternal truth about oneself or one's actions. By training ourselves to detach from these temporary reactions, we can focus more effectively on our personal growth and self-improvement rather than seeking external validation or defending against negativity. This approach fosters resilience, maturity, and inner peace, allowing us to navigate through life with greater clarity and purpose.
W. Somerset Maugham was a renowned English playwright, novelist, and short story writer of the twentieth century. Born in Paris in 1874, Maugham achieved literary fame early in his career and went on to write over thirty plays, more than twenty novels, and numerous short stories. His works often explore themes of morality, human nature, and the complexities of life, making him one of the most widely read authors of the modern era.
