Part 1: Principle 1: Don't Criticize, Condemn or Complain

"Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain - and most fools do.  But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving." 

Really take a moment to think about this very first principle because it is powerful.  In the past few months I have been really focusing on being positive and saying positive things to others and to myself.  It wasn't until I read this chapter that I really realized that even though I am being more positive, I am still being negative because I am criticizing others and complaining about them.  And most of the time it was to myself, which I think can even be worse than saying it out loud because then it is just stewing around in my head.


Since reading this chapter I have caught myself complaining about things and criticizing those around me.  And I do it A LOT more than I thought I did, which means you probably are too.  Realize this though, it may not be all of your fault.  Think about what you brought up around.  Most likely it was complaining and criticizing.  Men are stupid, My boss is an idiot, Why can't people learn how to drive... Do any of these sound familiar to you?  Look in the mirror...do you really like what you see (hear)?

Now, this isn't something that you can change over night.  Trust me, I still complain and criticize.  So how can you get on a better path?  Take the time to really realize what you are saying.  How often are you criticizing someone?  How often are you complaining about someone or something?  And when you criticize, condemn or complain, does that really change the situation?

Check out this article that really puts it well and illustrates the message of this principle. "Don't Occupy Wall Street"

I would love to hear your thoughts!