I've thought for a day or so on how best to answer this question posed in the #weekend-engagement concept this week then came to the conclusion there's no best way to answer it. Humans are complicated creatures, we all have faults and failings and the opposite also, amazing characteristics that should be celebrated, and one doesn't negate the other - we are what we are. So, there's no best way to answer the question, just my way.
I photographed this image
Complaint
This man...he's stubborn, often single-mindedly fixated results-focused. He doesn't seek perfection just drives himself relentlessly at improvement and attainment of the intended goal; he doesn't have it in him to quit. I've wondered at times how he manages to function but function he does, effectively, and efficiently, no matter the personal cost. And speaking of cost...he pays a price, one most would never wish to pay.
This man...he applies that stubbornness to life, all aspects of it including his work, relationships, personal development and recreation but sometimes that stubbornness, through inflexibility, is an impediment; he would agree...when he's not being stubborn of course.
Compliment
This man...he's stubborn and that single-minded focus, the drive towards constant improvement has kept him alive, has brought him home in one piece and helped him move forward despite the past.
He doesn't know how to quit or give in although sometimes he wants to; instead, he shifts focus, retains the intensity of focus, so that he may approach challenges from a new perspective and with renewed vigour. He applies consistency, persistence, effort and passion towards the end-goal and the steps towards it and it's his stubbornness, his refusal to compromise his ethics, integrity, standards and feelings of ownership and responsibility that move things forward towards success.
Juxtaposition
This man...he applies that stubbornness to life and life repays him in kind with happiness and fulfilment and surrounds him with people who respect his ways, are attracted to them and who feel safe because of them. I've been the subject of this passionate stubbornness, the perpetual drive towards improvement and it's beautiful and frustrating, makes me so gloriously happy and furious simultaneously...But that's what passion can do; like a pendulum it swings both ways.
People are complicated and simple at the same time, just as a personality trait or action we complain about in others, or ourselves, can also be a compliment to them and us. There's always different perspectives and depending on the situation and application we will see something to value and respect or something we do not.
Given the chance to change this man, I would choose against it. He is perfectly fallible, a little broken and somewhat fragile, stubborn and inflexible...But he has honour, integrity and an intensity that makes people, makes me, feel safe, respected and valued. Have I got much to complain about...yes of course, and he will own every single complaint. But, have I got much to compliment him over? Yes, that list is endless.
Becca 馃挆
This post was written in response to week 112 of the #weekend-engagement concept which you can find here and pinned in the WEEKEND EXPERIENCES community.