1. Commit to “welcoming” criticism.

Instinctively, few of us welcome criticism. Most of us hate it and prefer to be complimented and praised. Yet the ancient sages describe this as one of the most admirable traits of character because if we have the courage to welcome criticism, it offers us an opportunity for unlimited growth throughout our lives.

Criticism does not always mean the other person doesn’t care.  Sometimes it demonstrates how much they do care and how much they want us to succeed. The same can be said of God. When we see difficult situations not as unfair or unfortunate, but as learning opportunities which our loving “father” has placed before us for our benefit, it will help us to accept and face these situations rather than avoid them.