Life, Lessons & Love

Complaining With Purpose

October 17, 2019

Complaining isn’t inherently negative. It’s how we do it that matters.

Complaining becomes toxic when it’s all we do, or when we merely vent without reflection.

Toxic emotions need an outlet, so if someone cares enough to listen, thank them. And remember that growth is the goal. If you learn from negative experiences, they will have served a purpose.

Complaining can be productive: clearly articulating a problem is the first step toward solving it, and reaching your goals. Complaining may, in fact, be a first step in identifying your goals.

While it’s important to clearly see what you want, identifying what you don’t want is equally valuable, as it clarifies the paths ahead. But don’t dwell there. Shift your focus to what you do want. If the path ahead is intolerable, look for a new path!

But, always be careful what you wish for. As recounted throughout time, when you get what you ask for—what you thought you wanted—you often discover that it wasn’t what you needed.

In life, your attitude, intention, and attention are your most effective tools. Use them well, and complain with purpose.