Groups criticize, communities critique.

Criticism gives power to the one judging. It often belittles and demeans and is used as a tool to elevate the status of one over the other. It creates distance by saying, “You’re not good enough.”

Critique gives power to the one creating. It often improves and helps and is used as a tool to elevate the status of the work over what it once was. It creates connection by saying, “You have a lot of potential.”

Groups tear down, communities build up. If you’re not among people who are making you better you’re by default among people who are making you worse. Time to move.