An 'American Idol' Star Shares 10 Tips for Happiness

Chew the Hay and Spit Out the Sticks

From the time I was a little girl, Mom taught me to "chew the hay and spit out the sticks." In other words, you can't allow criticism or negative statements of any kind to get you down. When somebody criticizes you, if there is anything helpful or if there is any kernel of truth in the criticism, take what is good and spit out the rest.