Victim status
or how not to be one!
This article was last revised or reviewed on 12/25/2005 07:02:10 AM
What is this article about? A "victim" is a person that appears to be "looking" for criticism. In my humble opinion"> Victim status or how not to be one! This article was last revised or reviewed on 12/25/2005 07:02:10 AM What is this article about? A "victim" is a person that appears to be "looking" for criticism. In my humble opinion, some people simply portray the victim appearance and invite criticism, therefore labeling themselves "victims". I am not attempting to be critical, simply factual. I hate to be criticized as much as anyone, but the reality of the matter is that some appearances, attitudes, and thoughts can promote one being perceived as a victim. You have seen people that act like victims many times before and depending on your attitude and level of criticism may have actual labeled them as "victims". Walking with your head down and never making eye contact and moving out of the way of others is typical of the victim mentality. Unfortunately I suffered from this malady for many years and literally asked to be labeled a victim by anyone that saw me. I couldn't understand why people were always snickering or pointing or giggling at me, I was just being there. Well, I was asking to be portrayed as a victim and didn't realize it. Years of this behavior taught me that feeling chased and down-trodden was not the most fun and I needed to do something about it. I started my practice by taking pictures and objectively reviewing them. I mean objectively! Not with that starry eyed approach but with a genuine objective approach. Suddenly not every one of my pictures was a stunning picture and I couldn't really believe that I looked like that and went out in public! For every picture shown on my old web site, there were probably 50 that didn't get seen. I learned from my mistakes. "Mistakes" is obviously a personal point of view and each of us has a point of view just like an opinion. There is an "acceptable" level right down to a non- acceptable level for each of us, it just varies from person to person. Learn not to be a victim by realizing how you are perceived and how you act. Seek guidance from objective parties. Post your picture on some web site that judges pictures and prepare for really objective opinions. I still cringe when I remember remarks made about my pictures by young people, mostly young males. They can be very cruel. Always realize however, that your opinion is your own but don't let it over-ride common sense. In the past few years I have developed an attitude that allows me to saunter forth anywhere at any time and feel comfortable with myself. If I am not accepted by some others, I simply realize their personal limitations and move on. Don't sweat the small stuff, and remember it is all small stuff. Please make sure to read the Attitude and the Passing articles for a more rounded point of view.