When it comes to complaints about an unfavorable situation, I have always believed that there are three types of people: the complainers (and some of them are very chronic complainers), the accepters, who accept that there is nothing they can do about the unfavorable situation either because there is nothing that can be done or because they are too lazy to do anything, and the action takers, who attempt to reverse the unfavorable situation by any means possible.
Maybe I’m wrong, but I believe the majority of people in this country fall into the first category. Some individuals are even addicted to complaining about negative circumstances. They have the ability to see even the smallest flaws in situations that the majority of people would consider favorable. So they consume them while complaining about their minor flaws.
Where do persistent complaining behaviors originate? Do they have their origins in the complainants’ extreme sloth, which prevents them from taking action? Is it the result of an extreme preoccupation with negative thoughts? Do these individuals feel as though they have gained control over a negative situation when they continue to complain about it and view complaints as potential solutions to problems? I have no idea, to be honest. However, I am aware that there are people who enjoy complaining frequently.
I have been and continue to be a member of a Telegram group of homeowners in my neighborhood that discusses issues that may impact the quality of life in the area. The group discusses a variety of issues, including regular access to potable water, security, stable access to electric power, and sanitary concerns. Actually, this is the first time I have participated in such a group, and just being a part of it has allowed me to learn so much about people’s behaviors.
The fact that the vast majority of homeowners in the group can confidently be labeled as “complainers” is one of the things that has surprised me the most. They enjoy complaining and pointing the finger. It amazes me that there are no more than 10 homeowners out of a group of over 1,000 (less than one percent, mind you) who are willing and able to take the initiative and responsibility to mobilize resources and individuals to address the community’s problems. 99 percent either complain about or accept the current state of affairs.
In contrast, I have not witnessed the one percent complaining. Their primary responsibility is to listen, observe, and act. The most that people in the 99 percent do is say things like, “Let’s do that,” “We need to do that,” “We shouldn’t do that,” etc. I therefore wonder, Why don’t they do it? Who are they waiting for to take the initiative? In the end, aren’t we all equally impacted by the issue? Whoever commissioned the one percent to act? Whoever said that the remaining 99 percent bear no responsibility?
Unfortunately, the one percent receives both credit and harsh blame for the actions they took to reverse an unfavorable situation. It is positive that they have the strength of character and thick skin to withstand what others throw at them. If you can change it, you should change it. If you cannot change the situation, accept it and be quiet. But please refrain from complaining and pointing fingers, as this has never been effective!
