Although

judge nicely.

Being hard on the self
Is completely unhealthy
When it serves as a detriment
To your personal growth
To such a degree that even the smallest task
May feel like an arduous nightmare
Similar to the way it feels, upon awakening

With cold sweats dripping

Although...

Being hard on the self
Is completely healthy
When you choose to see self criticism
As a compass which serves as a guide

To gravitate your actions towards
Challenging the mind, body, and soul
And going to bed most nights
With the prospect of a promising tomorrow

the challenge

         

  lies within the balance.

Reviews

[EloisaWrites]

This is a good write. I like the way you used contrast to lay out your reasoning on the balance of the way we discipline ourselves. I like the form of your poem, too. :)

[Al R. Arce]

It almost seems as though it was part of a dialogue! I liked it!

[Patricia Wedel]

dear one... When wildflowers grow...
each one has it's own beauty.
It takes awhile to develop your
unique style... lots of sunshine and rain.
Seasons come and go ... as we grow.
When reading each other's poetry...
we gain a sense of propriety.
We need a certain amount of freedom
to be creative. That being said...
when another poet critiques your
poetry ... it can be delicious and
savored. Your poem is lovely and
reflects your innermost feelings.
Truly... Pat

[Justsimplyjulia]

very cool, very collected. I liked it.:)
-Dragon

[Great Aunt Astri]

Yes, balance is most important, but sometimes it seems that we are walking on a tight rope!

[00000000000000000000000..]

Balance is an awesome concept:)

[kublakhan27]

Definitely something to think about. I like how eloquently you've offered both sides of the perspective. Well done and well-written.

[Trace]

Being your own worst critic can be painful, but one can grow from the criticism Don't be too hard on yourself as long as you keep trying. Love this little bit of sage advice. Trace

[Diana]

Truth, not always an easy task to keep the balance.