Why is it that an environment that would be labeled “abusive” if imposed by a spouse upon a spouse or a parent upon a child is anywhere within the bounds of acceptability in a workplace?

This is why I work from home!

The process is very liberating and does inspire one to see the world differently. However, no one actually expected such exercises to create finished work.

I think that’s the crux of it. We need to loosen up and let things flow – but most of the time there’s more to be done than the first draft/sketch. We revere Leonardo and Michelangelo’s sketches, but they treated them more as functional objects, part of the process rather than finished works.

@ Isobel –

I also think, as you’ve pointed out in your article, that critical thinking can get replaced by criticism and a temporary suspension of judgement allows people to contribute their suggestions in a safe environment.

Yes, depending on the context, that can be really helpful.

I’ve also been in situations where the best option was simply to grow a thicker skin! Robust critiques can be well-meant, and you can get away with some very blunt exchanges as long as you focus on the work, and there’s an underlying mutual respect.

@ Andrew – Sounds like you’ve done a good job of combining quality and quantity…

@ Plish –

Not sure one can even call that critical thinking as much as a fault analysis (not sure there’s a good word for what I’m trying to say here).

Nit-picking? Fault-finding? Yes-butting?

That Twain quote is one of my favourites. Imagine if he’d lived to see Twitter…

@ DebB – You should see some of the ridiculous stuff that never sees the light of day on Lateral Action.

@ Sarah – Yes, the Inner Saboteur is a master of disguise!