We're Bored
When we feel uninspired, we often look for things to complain about. It can be easier to direct our energy toward something negative than it is to get creative, and find ways to stimulate our mind. The best way to combat this pattern is to redirect your focus. Choose to shift your energy from complaining to celebrating. For instance, if you catch yourself complaining about the food at lunch, immediately shift your focus onto what you plan to cook for dinner. Instead of fixating on what you don’t like, take back your sense of agency and think about what you can create. When you realize you’re capable of effecting change, the urge to complain fades.
We’re Not Happy
Often when we complain about the negativity around us, we’re unwilling to look at the negativity within us. Therefore, we project our sadness outward by complaining about other people, our surroundings, or life in general. It’s easier and more comfortable to blame things external to us. But, I’ll let you in on an open secret: Facing up to the negativity within is liberating because you can change it. The simple way out of this pattern is to focus on the good stuff. Proactively choose to focus on what feels good and what makes you happy.
It’s A Habit
Whenever I notice myself complaining, I witness an old habit showing up. Even though this pattern of behavior no longer resonates with me, it still seems to pop up from time to time. The best way to change the habit is to witness it and then choose to see it differently. If you can catch yourself in the exact moment that you’re complaining you can pivot and choose to change your attitude in an instant. That moment of change establishes a new pattern that creates healthier behavior. Each time you catch yourself and choose to see things differently, you reinforce that healthy new pattern. And, that’s a miracle.