Complain Less to Complain Better
By Sara Butler
Everyone complains. It’s a natural thing -- after all, there are many things each day that are out of your direct control. For some people, complaining is second nature. The problem is, complaining about a million little things each day takes its toll on you after a time because you spent energy and time to do it -- time and energy that you could use on something else to make your day better. Here’s how you can make your complaining more productive and ultimately lead to doing it less!
How Often Do You Complain?
When you complain, all you’re really doing is focusing your energy and time on something with a negative connotation. Focusing on the negative like this can up your stress levels, anger, and anxiety. Also, you don’t want to get a reputation for being a person that complains all the time.
Start trying to recognize how much and often you complain. Think about how you feel when you do it and how it impacts your mood.
Give Time to Venting
Complaints can be about issues that are serious -- such as a problem at work or a family problem. It’s OK to feel upset about something but recognize that this type of complaining is different than complaints about little things. You need to allow yourself time to vent about upsetting issues in your life.
After you’ve given yourself time to vent, make a conscious choice to not complain and work toward finding a real solution to the problem so your energy isn’t wasted.
Stop Complaining for a Whole Day
Challenge yourself not to say anything negative or take a negative position for a whole day -- simply observe the world around you without making judgments or having reactions. Take note of things happening around you, make a mental note, and then move on. Being free of complaints for a whole day can make a big difference in your perspective!
Do Something
A lot of small complaints actually have a solution. For example, if you’re tired or hungry, then instead of complaining, act! Notice the things you’re complaining about that aren’t that big of a deal and see it as a reflection that you need to make a few changes for your own happiness.
Work on how much you complain. By trying to curb your complaints you may just find out you can be a lot happier and less stressed
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