Meaning: This quote by Antoine Fuqua, a renowned film director, provides insight into his approach to handling criticism. Fuqua is known for directing impactful and critically acclaimed films such as "Training Day," "The Equalizer," and "Southpaw." In the quote, he discusses the importance of taking criticism seriously while also emphasizing the need to avoid personally reading the critiques.

Fuqua's statement reflects a common dilemma faced by many individuals, particularly those in the creative and public-facing industries. Criticism, whether positive or negative, can have a profound impact on an individual's work and emotional well-being. Fuqua's approach to taking criticism seriously but refraining from reading it personally speaks to the delicate balance between valuing feedback and protecting one's mental and emotional state.

The first part of the quote, "I take them seriously but I try not to read them," suggests that Fuqua acknowledges the significance of critiques and feedback. As a director, he understands the value of constructive criticism in refining his craft and improving his work. By expressing that he takes criticism seriously, Fuqua demonstrates a level of respect for the opinions and perspectives of others, indicating a willingness to consider and learn from feedback.

The second part of the quote, "I take them personally, that's why I don't read them," delves into the emotional impact of criticism. Fuqua's admission that he takes criticism personally reveals the vulnerability and emotional investment that often accompany the creative process. Despite the common advice to develop a thick skin and not take criticism to heart, Fuqua's honesty underscores the deeply personal nature of creative work and the impact that external evaluations can have on an individual's psyche.

Fuqua's assertion that "people are lying when they say they don't care" challenges the notion that individuals in the public eye or creative industries are unaffected by criticism. This candid acknowledgment of the emotional weight of criticism humanizes the experience of receiving feedback, dispelling the misconception that successful individuals are impervious to the opinions of others. By acknowledging the personal impact of criticism, Fuqua encourages a more empathetic understanding of the challenges faced by creators and public figures in navigating feedback and judgment.

The quote concludes with Fuqua's assertion that taking criticism personally is the reason he refrains from reading it. This decision reflects a self-protective measure aimed at preserving his emotional well-being and creative confidence. By consciously choosing not to read critiques, Fuqua prioritizes his mental and emotional health while maintaining a level of detachment from potentially hurtful or discouraging feedback.

In summary, Antoine Fuqua's quote encapsulates the nuanced relationship between creators and criticism. His acknowledgment of the importance of criticism, coupled with his candid admission of taking it personally, offers a glimpse into the emotional complexities inherent in receiving feedback. By sharing his approach of taking criticism seriously while avoiding personal engagement with it, Fuqua provides valuable insight into the delicate balance of valuing feedback while safeguarding one's emotional resilience. This quote serves as a reminder of the human experience behind creative endeavors and the significance of empathy and understanding in the exchange of feedback.