There’s an interesting phenomenon.

When we’re trying to get a difficult point across, almost without fail, the audience doesn’t listen the way we want them to. The people who are already doing what we’re asking listen intently and take every word to heart, whereas the people we’re really trying to influence either don’t care or don’t think the message is directed at them.

It’s the straight A student who sits on the edge of their seat as the teacher is emphasizing the importance of studying. He/she is exactly the person who doesn’t need the lesson, but based on their personality they’re also the person most likely to listen.

This effect is one of several reasons why constructive criticism is best given in private.

If we want someone to change, they need to understand that they’re the one in our focus.

-Brandon