The only problem with a person who always finds fault with another is because of their weakness

This week I had the idea to jot down a few lines about the quote from The Wealth of the Great Kingdom—"The only problem with a person who always finds fault with another is because of their weakness"—it's really different, isn't it? It’s one of those lines that makes you think, “Yeah, that explains a lot.” The quote's simplicity belies its profound depth. When we talk about someone who “always finds fault with another,” we’re not just talking about a one-time complaint or a valid complaint. We’re talking about someone who seems to have a built-in flaw radar, constantly pointing out what’s wrong with everyone else—their choices, their appearance, their work, and their life in general. It’s a pattern, almost a compulsion. The quote states that the only issue with this behavior is their "own weakness." Aww. However, it's also quite cleverly said. It’s not about the person they’re criticizing; it’s about the critic themselves. These “weaknesses” do not necessarily relate to being physically weak or to being poor individuals. They are usually internal, hidden struggles. Think about it:  Insecurity is a big one: This condition is probably the most common culprit. If someone is deeply insecure about themselves—their appearance, their intelligence, their success, their happiness—what's an easy way to feel temporarily better? This can be achieved by highlighting the perceived shortcomings of others. It's akin to saying, "If I can make you feel inferior, perhaps I'm not as bad as I thought." It's a defense mechanism, a way to deflect attention from their fears and self-doubt. Example: Do you know that colleague who consistently makes sarcastic remarks about others' presentation abilities or their fashion selections? However, if you look closely, they might be quite shy about presenting themselves or dress in a way that blends in, trying not to draw attention. Their critiques might stem from their fear of being judged or their feeling that they aren't quite "good enough." Envy and Jealousy: Another classic. When someone sees another person achieving something they secretly desire—be it success, a fulfilling relationship, happiness, or even just a cool new gadget—their dissatisfaction often masks deep-seated envy. Rather than experiencing genuine joy for others, they seek to undermine their happiness. "Oh, she got that promotion, but she probably just got lucky," or "His new car is nice, but it's probably a money pit." Example: Imagine a friend who constantly finds fault with your partner or your relationship. "Are you really sure they're right for you? They seem a bit [insert negative trait]." Often, this response comes from a place where they might be struggling to find a path, or their relationship isn't as fulfilling as they'd like. Lack of Self-Awareness/Personal Fulfillment Sometimes, individuals who are perpetually dissatisfied with others may actually be deeply dissatisfied with their own lives, but they struggle to pinpoint the reason or why. They might feel a lack of purpose, emptiness, or just general unhappiness. They project their unhappiness outward onto everyone else instead of doing the hard work of looking inward and fixing their own issues. Blaming others is easier than blaming yourself. Example: Think about folks who spend an excessive amount of time online, trolling comment sections, or tearing down strangers. What personal challenges might lead individuals to find comfort in critiquing those they are not acquainted with? It's often a void that they're trying to fill, a way to exert some kind of power or control when they feel powerless in their existence. Fear of the Unknown/Change: For some, constantly finding fault in others stems from a rigid worldview and a fear of anything that deviates from their norm. They criticize different ways of thinking, living, or loving because they challenge their safe, familiar box, which can feel threatening. For example, a family member may nitpick every decision a younger relative makes regarding their career or lifestyle, consistently finding something "wrong" with those choices. They might be genuinely operating from a place of fear—fear of the unknown, fear that things are changing too fast, or fear that their life choices weren't the "best" ones. Therefore, the quote from " The Wealth of the Great Kingdom" offers insight rather than meanness.  Individual struggles often reveal the source of someone's persistent negativity, which typically stems from their own unaddressed flaws. It provides you with an alternative viewpoint, not to justify unacceptable behavior, but to comprehend its underlying causes. And indeed, it also serves as a valuable reflection for ourselves: if we find ourselves habitually scrutinizing others, perhaps it is time for a moment of self-examination. 

Author: Sezgin Ismailov