The most powerful position is neither seeking praise nor seeking to avoid criticism.  It is in this space that we do our best work, we take calculated risks.  When the inevitable critics raise their voices, we are able to hear only the scraps of their words that we can use to improve ourselves and our product.  We need not feel any emotion around their harsh critique – embracing criticism causes its sting to dissipate.

And if we do great work and no one says, “Great work!” no worries.  Doing great work is its own reward.

Standing on your own two feet unaffected by the cheers or boos of the crowd is a most powerful feeling.