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Gripers, Complainers and Whiners - Oh My!
by Linda Larsen, CSP
© Copyright 2000

Have you ever found yourself around a negative person whose only goal in life, it seemed, was to make you and everyone around you miserable? If so, you are absolutely not alone.

What follows is a five step strategy to help you better deal with those negative, griping, complainers and whiners.

The next time you encounter such a person...
1. Start by acknowledging their feelings
2. Let them know you'd like to help
3. Be straight about what listening to them does to you
4. Use humor
5. Get solution oriented

Here's how it might sound...

"Gosh, Sam, I can tell you're really frustrated about this. I wish I could help, and - I really can't. See, here's the challenge: When I listen to what's going on with you - not only does it start to bring me down - but I find myself getting so depressed that all I want to do is stab myself with a dinner fork. If you want to brainstorm some possible solutions to the problem I'm here for you. Gotta run. Bye."

Then LEAVE. Smile politely and leave the room. Misery loves company, right? Well, then don't give it any! It's not unkind. It's not rude. It's self-preserving!

Now then - do NOT go out of the room, find the first person you can, and then start complaining to them about the negative person. If you do, (and they have read this article), they might respond with...

"Gosh, I can tell you're really frustrated about this. I wish I could help, and...."

Word count: 258

Tag line: Linda Larsen, CSP, helps individuals think strategically, communicate effectively, and celebrate success. She is an international keynote speaker, trial consultant and author of the book, True Power, and the best selling audio program, 12 Secrets to High Self-Esteem. She can be reached at www.lindalarsen.com or 941-927-4700.

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