New Delhi, July 14 -- Don't be afraid of enemies who attack you; be afraid of the friends who flatter you. Bestselling author Dale Carnegie advised people to appreciate sincere criticism over empty praise.

Quote of the day by Dale Carnegie

"Don't be afraid of enemies who attack you. Be afraid of the friends who flatter you"

Although the quote may be shocking, it embodies the idea Carnegie adhered to throughout his career. Carnegie spent his life learning human behavior and interpersonal relationships and regularly highlighted the distinction between authentic praise and shallow flattery. Critics speak openly, flatterers work quietly. There's an inherent difference between critique and flattering, Carnegie argued.

Their remarks, while ...