Admonishment

Negative feedback can easily create negative feelings.  A correction therefore need not be an admonishment.

It’s best to wait for any negative emotions to subside before addressing said concerns.  When a calm and rational approach has been decided on, its then best to wait until the incident recurs, as they usually do.

In this manner, the other person, child or animal understands best the reason for correction.  You keep mindful at all times that you are correcting a mistake and not delivering a punishment.

Most people and creatures love to please and be appreciated.  You can facilitate supportive relationships by communicating simply what is needed and then showing gratitude when that is delivered.

Emphasize the positive, what you need, versus what was done wrong.

Example:  Thanks for doing this.   I really appreciate your help.  Unfortunately, we needed it done this way and had to have it redone.  Consider it a learning experience.  Here’s what to do next time.

Example:  You’re right, I don’t understand this.  Please tell me what I need to know.

With animals a simple No when it makes a mistake and lots of encouragement and praise when it does the right thing 😊. The best way to teach a simple creature is through gentle repetition.

We all try our best and it’s disheartening to make a mistake.  A good way to judge a man’s character is to see the way he treats you when you’ve made a mistake.  To err is human. To forgive is divine.