Before I jump into today's post, a quick reminder that I'm hosting a virtual minimalist challenge (party) on 2/1! (Click the link for details).
As of yesterday there were over 500 participants signed up on FB! YEAH!
I'm super stoked about our party, but also about today's mini-challenge!
(p.s. If you can't join our little declutter par-tay (maybe you're working or traveling, for example) this is a GREAT way to still participate!)
You've heard me say this a few times before on Minimalist Monday:
Complaining is not a conversation.
Now, I'm not saying as a minimalist you can't have your grief or your frustrations --- you absolutely can! BUT negativity catches on to everything around it.... and, well, don't we want to minimizenegativity?
A huge part of my motivation in becoming a minimalist is "less stress, more happiness." That whole "let it be zen" thing is also why I do yoga and I find when I don't complain, I feel a lot better than if I did.
Attitude really is everything.
Here's an experience I shared on Facebook last week:
"After being somewhat of a grouchy sourpuss all morning, I decided that's not the person I wanted to be. I wanted to be a smiling, optimistic person. SO I started being over the top nice, friendly, polite, smiling at everyone, wishing them a happy day. I looked like I was in a Disney movie... and amazingly, after about 10 minutes, my attitude turned around and my spirit lifted. Happy thoughts herbies!"
Later that day I posted this quote as part of my January Inspiration theme (I've been posting an inspiring quote every day this month on Facebook. I don't always remember to do it on Instagram or Twitter, but I try!)
Even if you think you're a generally happy person and don't complain that often, I challenge you to go 24 hours without complaining. I guarantee you'll surprise yourself.
I'm still a work in progress, but I've been trying really hard not to complain, especially on social media. I know my life can't always be sunshine and rainbows, but I've been trying to put out more positivity and less negativity. If nothing else, going on a complain fast has really made me more away of what I'm saying, and thinking.
To be clear: I'm still a huge believer in constructive feedback, but the keyword is constructive. Most often complaints aren't terribly helpful for the sayer or the listener. I still want truth and honesty -- but my complaints very largely served anyone. That's been my big realization.
Report back :)
