In my experience -- and I've been through two Saturn returns now -- the crucial point is to face the hard lessons head on, and don't try to run from them. Saturn returns can be a source of immense strength and healing once you do that, but if you try to duck out on it you'll just make your life miserable. Figure out what you need to do to deal with your problems and do it, no excuses, no whining, and you'll come through in good shape.