Appreciate criticisms as if they are road signs to make your travel safe, easier and on track.
Don’t assume that somebody is an enemy just because that person criticizes you. That person could be just telling you the truth or cares enough to make you see where you are wrong, notwithstanding the hurt or inconvenience his forthrightness may cause you or him.
Much of what makes success or progress happen is not talent, skill, knowhow, ability or money, but the humble taking in of criticism from well-meaning people, each step of the way.
Historian Prof. Daniel Feller depicted US President Andrew Jackson as a leader “who left a permanent imprint upon American politics and the presidency.” He was the one who “strengthened himself against Congress by forging direct links with the voters.”
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. deserves all the support he can muster from the Filipino people. He also appealed for support to his programs of government, one of which is the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund. But be that as it may, I think the people in general remain skeptical about the proposal.
Dearest BBM, your father had dynamic qualities as a leader. He could have served the nation so well and could have been remembered as our greatest president had he not failed, and failed miserably, in facing criticisms. Your father closed his ears to dissenting voices like he was infallible or a god. Tragic. It was in this aspect, principally, where your beloved father met his waterloo.
We heed your call for support, Mr. President; however, if the support you are asking for is for everybody to agree all the time with what you want to do for the country, then that is not support, but servility, a sure formula for national disaster.
The best support we can give you is our love and concern for the country.
Being receptive to criticisms is the first and last gauge of true and effective leadership. Whether we voted for you or not is immaterial.