What are you complaining about today?
Is it the same thing you complained about yesterday?
Is it the same thing you complained about the day before yesterday?
If you find yourself complaining about the same thing every day, then make a change.
If you don’t think you complain a lot, start tracking it. Be aware of what you say.
You can also ask people around you for their feedback.
You may be surprised by their response, especially if it differs from your opinion of yourself.
Some people think complaining is a way to commiserate with others.
But is it?
Doesn’t it build more negative energy?
Challenge yourself to stop complaining. Replace it by making a change.
With every complaint left unaddressed, negativity takes up space in your mind, limiting your ability to find solutions.
Try these three strategies to reframe your negativity.
1-Take action:
Next time you catch yourself complaining, pause and ask yourself: “What action can I take to shift this situation?”
By reflecting on the situation, you challenge yourself to shift your mindset and reframe the negative narrative.
Unhappy with your job? Consider exploring other job opportunities.
Stressful commute? Consider carpooling or house hunting for a closer proximity to work.
Not enough time? Start saying “no” and taking things off your calendar.
Try it for a week and see what happens.
It’s easier to complain instead of making a change. But challenge yourself to strive for action.
2-Find gratitude:
If you find it difficult to shift away from complaining, try keeping a gratitude journal.
Each day, write down three things you appreciate.
Include small things, such as the sound of the birds chirping.
This simple habit of writing in a gratitude journal rewires your brain to notice the positives in life.
When you shift your perspective, complaining becomes less central to your conversations.
3-Seek support:
Seek out mentors, friends, or coworkers who focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
Their energy and example will inspire you to do the same.
Remove from your life the negative impact of complaining.
Follow these three strategies to shift how you change your negative perspective.
Progress isn’t about eliminating every complaint. It’s about increasing your self-awareness.
Accept the challenge to stop complaining and start changing.
Build a life that’s less about complaints and more about meaningful change.
And remember to stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, and focused)!
(Update to original post from June 16, 2016)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”