Let’s get real — complaining is something we’re all guilty of. Whether we’ve grumbled about something a few times this week or even a few times today, we’ve likely all complained at one point or another this semester. I mean we’re only human after all, right?
Although VALLEY loves a good rant-sesh, chronic complaining releases negative energy into the world, and may not be the best solution to dealing with everyday inconveniences. It might be nice to let our frustrations out, but why not instead channel them into something more positive?
If you’re not sure where to start, look no further. We’ve come up with some realistic and doable suggestions to help with chronic complaining.
Shift Your Thinking
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Sometimes a solution to a negative spiral doesn’t have to be a concrete action. A simple shift in your mindset could be the key to cutting back on complaints.
An easy way to do this is every time you find yourself complaining, think about how you could re-work the complaint into something positive. For example, “I don’t wanna walk to class,” could be replaced with, “I’m glad I have the chance to get some fresh air while I walk to my next class.” “I have so many assignments due,” could be switched to, “I have plenty of things to keep myself busy, and these assignments will give me the chance to boost my grades in my classes.”
These sentences may sound silly, but your brain can be easily tricked. Have you ever heard of the smiling theory? According to NBC, research has shown that “smiling can trick your brain into believing you’re happy which can then spur actual feelings of happiness.” Dr. Isha Gupta, a neurologist from IGEA Brain and Spine, explains that this is because “a smile spurs a chemical reaction in the brain, releasing certain hormones including dopamine and serotonin.”
Next time you’re about to complain, redirecting the complaint (and maybe even adding a smile) will help not only your mindset, but also your mood. It’s all in the science.
Complaining is draining. Complaining only takes away energy from today and never solves the problems for tomorrow.
—James Altucher
The Art Of Noticing
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Focusing on the beauty that surrounds you is another way to reduce negative thoughts. Noticing your surroundings can remind you that although there can always be something to complain about, there is just as much to be grateful for.
One tip is to take in your surroundings on your walk to class. What haven’t you noticed before on your seemingly-mundane trek? Maybe it’s the tree you walk by that’s finally beginning to blossom, or the bunnies chasing each other on the grass.
Observing what’s going on around you can be a great way to focus on something else and ground yourself in the present moment. If your mind is busy, those negative thoughts will have more trouble creeping in. You may even have a new appreciation for those daily walks to class.
When you see beauty all around you, beauty will seek and find you, even in the most unexpected places.
—Alberto Villoldo
How Lucky Am I
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Practicing gratitude is another way to convert complaints into positive thoughts. Some people like to have a journal for this practice, but it’s definitely not required.
Many content creators on TikTok have posted videos about converting their complaints. You may have seen slideshow posts with phrases starting with, “How lucky am I,” or, “What a privilege it is to…” Engaging with these uplifting trends can help remind yourself that you have so much to be grateful for. Things that we complain about, such as school, may be someone else’s dream, so it’s important to remember to never take anything for granted.
What a privilege it is to get to wake up early, What a privilege it is to get to work out every day, What a privilege it is to be able to have a busy schedule, What a privilege it is to have people to miss, What a privilege it is to stress about the future, What a privilege it is to spend time outside and admire God’s creation”
—TikTok slideshow post by @brynnwrightt
Practice Makes Progress
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Another realistic way to practice gratitude is to make it a goal to list five things you’re grateful for at the beginning of each day. Writing them on Post-it notes and putting them up in your room could also be a cute way to remind yourself of all you have to be thankful for.
Making a conscious effort to start off with positivity will help you have brighter days, and with enough practice, you won’t even have to think about it anymore. Although it’s unrealistic to expect ourselves to stop complaining altogether, converting our complaints is one step to reduce negativity and live a more fulfilling life.
Let us know how you change your negative thoughts by tagging us on Instagram @VALLEYmag!
Related
Walks to Remember
Gratitude and Its Lasting Impacts
Finding Your Inner Peace
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