Has someone ever asked you “how is it going” and your response was “I have no complaints”? More than likely you have either said it or heard someone say it. Sometimes my follow is “even if I complain, it will not resolve anything.” The best part of the conversation is someone is caring for your well-being even in the briefest of moments. Part 2 of the habits series is exploring complaining (disconnecting habit) versus caring (connecting habit). Complaining is defined as “feeling dissatisfied or frustrated with someone or something and communicating those feelings”. Complain comes from the Latin word “complangere” = com (very much) + plangere “to hit the chest.” This habit can drive a wedge between individuals if the habit of caring is absent. Caring is defined as “having and communicating a genuine interest in another or concern for another.” Care comes from the Old English “caru” = trouble. Caring about another’s troubles takes a great deal of self-awareness and self-sacrifice. In your relationships, determine which of these habits dominates your interactions. Are you disconnecting or connecting? Which habit are you using? Until next time, everyone. Remember, the choice is yours.
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