Take the Initiative

Managers are not put in their positions to complain.  Managers exist to either solve problems or propose solutions.  If we find ourselves complaining too much (beyond the very human pleasure of having a good moan), it is our responsibility to address the situation in a constructive manner.

1. If the negative situation is within our control, we are obligated to rectify it.  For example, a staff member who is always late with reports must be challenged in private, counselled and advised of the consequences of continuing their dysfunctional habit.  
2. If the problem is within our influence but beyond our control, several options are available.  Discussions with our boss can be productive of alternatives.  A friendly coffee with an uncooperative colleague might yield information that could improve your approach.  Redesigning parts of a project plan may eliminate problem areas or divide them off for solution at a later date.
3. If the situation is beyond both our influence and our control, personal internal searching is necessary.  Activities that are unethical or illegal must be reported to senior management or another organizational entity, such a corporate security.  A work environment that is chronically unfriendly or unproductive may indicate that we have to find another position, either in a more compatible part of the organization or in a different organization altogether.

Before setting out on resolving the situation that provokes our complaints, it is always worthwhile to examine our own opinions.  Sometimes we are hyper-critical of an imperfect world, and sometimes we may be the cause of our own dissatisfaction because of other factors in our lives.  Be certain about which problem needs solving.