Some times it takes an event or conversation to give you a reality check about something. We are all faced with difficult situations and tough decisions in our lives that often may cause us to complain. Regardless if it is dealing with your personal or professional life, complaints happen. I think one of the most difficult things to see is when it’s you that’s complaining.

If someone else comes to you and complain all the time, you may think in your head, “he or she is always complaining.” When the shoe is on the other foot, you often don’t realize you do the same thing. I have caught myself many times complaining about something and then it hits me that I need to go another route and stop complaining. This is not to say you can’t relieve your frustrations sometimes. The big question is what are you going to do about the things you are complaining about?

You can do several things including allow it to take up mental space and be disgruntled about the situation or on the other hand, you can compete. I know you are wondering to yourself, “what is she talking about?” You are probably even thinking back on one of my previous post about competition. If you didn’t get a chance to read that one, you may view it here.

Complain or compete! You ultimately have control over you. You may not have control over all situations, but you can control you. Those things you are complaining about may be used as a stepping stone for you. You can determine what it takes in order to make it a positive situation or a benefit for you. Complain or compete doesn’t just apply to sports even though I’ve heard the quote used with athletes. As a former coach, I’ve used it as well. As I continue to strive to be a better me, I can’t complain about the weather that may hinder me from walking in my neighborhood or about my clothes not fitting how I want them to. I can’t complain about things beyond my control in my personal or professional life. It’s up to me to compete with those complaints and ultimately my goal is to win. It’s up to you to be a champion or warrior of your life. They say true champions do not complain, instead they compete. The choice is yours.