Changing the Complaint

Have you noticed others complaining lately?  How about noticing yourself doing it too?  Have you considered the impacts of complaining? It’s not good…

People won’t have time for you if you are always angry or complaining. Stephen Hawking

Complaining to complain is very disruptive for you and those around you. It not only brings the mood down but also causes stress and can do physical and mental harm.  One of our society’s favorite places to grumble is while waiting in line somewhere. If we are not on our phones, we will find a way to complain about something.   One of the best places to witness this act is the checkout line and the grocery store. Observe next time!

The next time you catch yourself complaining (for me I am sure it will be tomorrow), say to yourself STOP. Take a look at those around you. Notice what the impact is on them.  Notice the impact on you.   It will be eye-opening.  You can take action to focus on something positive or on a solution. The most effective way to counter complaining is to be grateful. Gratitude can change your mood in an instant. Sharing gratefulness with others multiplies the positive impact exponentially.

I recently witnessed a team decide to start the meeting with a statement of gratitude. It is at the top of the agenda, and it always leads off the meeting.  Almost always the pre-meeting banter includes some sort of complaining.  When a team member shares what they are grateful for it changes everyone’s emotional state instantly. Since the practice began the meetings are much sharper and on point. The ideas and solutions are better as well.  The team leaves the meeting energized every time. Since the team is the Leadership Team that one act has a calming effect on the entire workplace. The tremendous power of gratitude is displayed every Thursday morning!

Choose gratitude over complaining tomorrow. You will be amazed at how much better you feel, perform, and are received.

“The most powerful weapon against your daily battles is finding the courage to be grateful anyway.” – Unknown