Hi Friend,

We always want others to like and accept us. But that is not always going to happen. It doesn't feel good when people say and do things against us. These experiences can be very painful to deal with. And hard to put behind us. You must learn how to sort through what people say to you and decide what is good and what is not. Take the good and learn from it. Take the bad and throw it in the trash. Discard it. It is trash.

Here's how you know good criticism from bad criticism. Good criticism may sting but it leaves you feeling empowered and knowing what you can improve. You know within your heart it is coming from someone who cares about you and wants the best for you. Bad criticism leaves you feeling like you got punched in the stomach. It leaves you feeling unwanted and worthless. Take the good criticism and grow from it. The bad criticism - take the trash out. Don't let it sit around and stink. Think about all those who love you and appreciate you. Think about all the good in you. Remember that just like everybody else you are not perfect. You have flaws and deficits. But just like everybody else you also have strengths and positive traits.

Everybody is not going to always think the best about you and what you do. Accept that. Some people are just haters. Accept it. Don't let them get to you. Keep your head up and keep moving toward your goals. When that person who is criticizing and complaining sleeps beside you or lives with you, learn to accept their opinion of you. Don't try to change their mind. Don't try to live up to all their expectations. Don't change and lose your authenticity. They can't change you and you can't change them. Be an example to them and accept them with their flaw of bad thinking. Ask God to help you discern what is good and what is not good coming from them. Learn to sow good into them even if you don't feel like it. Give them hugs and kisses. Complement them on the good they do. Create a positive environment in spite of their pessimism. Remember light always overcomes darkness. Over time good will win.

~Joe

P.S. Have you signed up yet to attend my upcoming Get Our Sizzle Back webinar? It's coming October 30th!