Are you stuck in the rut of being a chronic complainer at work? Do you often find yourself pointing out the shortcomings and flaws in others without taking any actionable steps? You're not alone. It’s easy to fall into the trap of identifying what’s wrong rather than being part of the solution. But, what if you could shift that mindset and transform yourself into a "make it happener"? Yes, Ive Jessified another word, and it’s something that has profoundly changed my career and could do the same for yours.

Continue reading If you know any complainers or if maybe, just maybe youre a closet complainer

⛏️⛏️⛏️ From Complaints to Solutions

Early in my career, I was adept at spotting other people’s deficiencies in the workplace. There was one individual in particular who drove me up the wall. I meticulously cataloged all his faults and shortcomings, and I was vocal about them. I spoke to colleagues, superiors, and even went as far as having a sit-down with his boss from a different city to present my grievances.

During that meeting, something unexpected happened. His boss, while recognizing the validity of my complaints, asked me, "Jess, you spend more time with him than I do. Is there any way you can help him?" In that moment, a lightbulb switched on in my mind. I realized that instead of just being a hall monitor and waiting for him to slip up, I could take proactive steps to help him improve.

⛏️⛏️⛏️ The Power of Shifting to a Proactive Mindset

This experience was transformative. Here's how adopting a proactive mindset can benefit your leadership skills and career:

• Increased Respect: Helping colleagues improve rather than criticizing them behind their backs builds respect and trust. People will see you as a supportive leader rather than a dang tattle tell.
• Constructive Feedback: Offering solutions alongside your critiques helps create a more positive work environment. Your feedback becomes a valuable resource rather than a list of complaints.
• Personal Growth: By focusing on how you can support others, you develop patience, empathy, and conflict-resolution skills that are crucial for leadership.
• Career Advancement: Leaders who are seen as problem-solvers and team players are often the ones who get noticed for promotions and new opportunities.

⛏️⛏️⛏️ Tips for Making the Shift

• Self-Reflection: Start by understanding why you tend to focus on complaints. Is it frustration, a desire for perfection, or something else? Knowing the root cause can help you address it.
• Constructive Approach: Translate your list of complaints into actionable items. Instead of just identifying problems, think about possible solutions and offer to help implement them.
• Communication: Approach the colleague or team member with empathy. Use "I" statements to express your intentions, such as "I’ve noticed X and I think doing Y might help improve it."
• Demonstrate the Behaviors you seek: Make damn sure your actions match your expectations of others. Show your willingness to roll up your sleeves and engage in problem-solving.
• Celebrate Improvements: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories and improvements, both in yourself and others. Positive reinforcement can encourage continued progress.

⛏️⛏️⛏️ A Challenge for You

So, to all the chronic complainers out there, here’s my challenge: Take a step back and reassess. Use your keen observational skills to not just find faults but also identify ways to support and uplift your team.

**Ask yourself:**

- How can I convert my complaints into a constructive feedback list?

- What steps can I take to help those around me improve?

- How can I model the behavior and attitude I wish to see in my colleagues?

By addressing these questions, you’ll not only lift your team but also propel your own career forward. Be cool, stay proactive, and let's turn those complaints into stepping stones for success.

**Be cool and keep making it happen. Peace.**