My good friend Rich Wilkerson (@richwilkersonsr), Pastor of Trinity Church in Miami, Fl., recommended a book the other day on twitter: The No Complaining Rule by Jon Gordon, that he had shared with his staff.
This is one of the great advantages of twitter, you can get updates on interesting books, articles, scriptures, quotes, etc. from people you respect or trust. Follow me on Twitter by clicking here.
With Rich’s recommendation I picked up the book and read it last night. A parable on the effects of negativity at work and in your personal life, the book highlights some facts I’d not previous known:
1. Negativity costs the U.S. economy between $250 to $300 million a year in lost productivity (Gallup).
2. 90% of doctor visits are stress related (CDC) and #1 cause of office stress is complaining.
3. Too many negative interactions compared to positive can decrease productivity of a team. (U of Michigan study)
Here are three practical tools they recommend to stop complaining:
1. Using But…to transition to a more positive outlook
From the book… “When you realize you are complaining, you simply add the word but and then add a positive thought or positive action. Example:
I don’t like driving to work BUT I”m thankful I have a job.”
2. Focus on “Get to” instead of “Have to”.
“Focus on what you GET to do. Focus on the feeling blessed instead of stressed.” Too many people feel they HAVE to do something instead of GETTING to do it.
3. Turn Complaints into Solutions
The goal is not to eliminate complaining, but the mindless complaining that serves no purpose and isn’t solutions based. When you see something that doesn’t satisfy, make some suggestions and look for solutions.
Summary: Easy, quick read that will remind you of what you know deep down, complaining almost always makes things worse and creates negativity. Keep focusing on the positive and looking for God’s hand in your life.
EXTRA: Check out this website, acomplaintfreeworld.org
DC
