When you don’t like something, what do you do?
Most people complain about it. According to research, most people complain once a minute during a typical conversation.
Shocking, right? It was to me.
It’s so socially acceptable to complain that it may not even strike you as strange in the moment.
You may not feel its effects, because you’re so used to it.
That doesn’t mean it doesn’t affect you.
The truth? Complaining is so toxic!
Complaining rewires your brain for negativity.
It can even make you sick. The extra cortisol released by frequent complaining impairs your immune system and make you more susceptible to high cholesterol, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and brain strokes.
Also, because we’re social beings, we naturally are affected by the moods of those around us. It’s called neuronal mirroring. Complaining is like smoking: you don’t have to do it yourself to suffer the negative effects.
Just as bad, every time you complain, you are putting yourself in the role of victim.
Playing the victim is bad for your business.
Woah, I’m not a victim, you might say! I’m just letting off steam!
That, my dear friends, is what is called an excuse. You don’t need to complain to let off steam. You can exercise. You can ask for advice and even empathy. You can talk about solutions, after you describe the situation.
So why do we complain?
The fact is, it’s easier to complain than it is to feel the problem and open to solutions. It gives you a little short-term relief.
And it’s a habit. For many of us, complaining is a learned coping mechanism we bring from childhood.
Complaining is a negative energy that interferes with you having the successful business that you can have. It interferes with your impact. It doesn’t change anything.
So I’m challenging you! For the next 30 days, commit to living complaint free.
Your energy will get a boost. Your business will benefit. Your clients and team may comment on the difference in your presence. You’ll see more possibilities. You’ll be more creative. You’ll feel more satisfied. You’ll be EMPOWERED.
During the challenge, if a complaint slips out, it’s ok! This is like any habit – you’ll need time to make the transition.
You as a business owner need to feel a sense of agency, a belief that your decisions have an effect. You need to be empowered.
Living complaint free is a great way to empower yourself. You’ll be surprised at the positive changes that ripple out.
Even if you’re not completely convinced, consider the evidence. Then try it as an experiment in improving your well-being.
Why 30 days? Complaining is a habit. To replace it with something better, you’ll need to do it 30 days in a row.
You can do this! When I first did it, it took me a few tries, but eventually I made it all the way through. And life was never the same.
I’ve needed a few repeats since then! And you may too – that’s all ok!
Are you ready to commit? Print off this blog post and sign your name below.
THE 30-DAY COMPLAINT FREE CHALLENGE
I _______________________ [name] commit to the 30-day complaint free challenge. If I complain, I’ll restart the challenge.
__________________________________________ ________________
Your Signature Today’s Date
Ursula Jorch, MSc, MEd, mentors entrepreneurs starting their businesses and seasoned entrepreneurs in transition to create the business of their dreams. Her coaching programs provide knowledge, support, clarity, inspiration, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs to empower you to reach your goals. Start with a free guide and other valuable info at www.WorkAlchemy.com.