We all complain, whether our problems are big or small, easy to get through or difficult to navigate. However, this form of communication can sometimes be toxic. While holding in our complaints can be unhealthy, too much complaining can be as well.

Complaining can often be an icebreaker to a conversation with your classmates or coworkers. Grumbling about the rainy, cold weather, or the long commute to work can simply be a means to avoid awkwardly standing next to someone. Joanna Wolfe, a professor of English at Carnegie Mellon University says that complaining about the late train with other riders “creates kind of a solidarity” and she has “made friends that way.” Occasionally, people’s complaints turn into other people’s annoyances. People who are prone to complain are more likely to damage their health, relationships, and careers.

Complaining less is a virtue we all strive to achieve. Photo Courtesy of: Thrillist

Complaints should not be outright abolished, as getting your point across in a healthy, neutral manner is the key to note your opinion. Not only can whining decrease your overall health, but it can also diminish your relationships with others. People do not want to be around others who are constant complainers, as it brings down the mood and doesn’t allow the other person to be happy.

The rise of a new organization called “A Complaint Free World” has helped over 11 million people overcome the act of complaining. Will Bowen, the founder of the organization, challenges individuals to go 21 days without complaining. He gives each person a purple bracelet to put on their wrist, and every time they complain, they must switch it to the other wrist. The problem is, he says, that most people don’t notice that they complain or only notice it when other people are doing it. His idea became so popular that numerous celebrities have even joined the pledge. His six millionth purple bracelet was personally awarded to the late Dr. Maya Angelou.

Overall, complain in a way that doesn’t just talk about the problem, but in a way that moves to a solution. While it may seem like a stress-relieving tactic momentarily, remember to not take for granted what you have, be appreciative, and try to complain less!

By: JoAnna Palumbo’19, Arts and Entertainment Editor