It seems that you can't throw a rock without hitting a handful of complainers, but there is an excellent alternative to keep you out of the complaining rut to become or remain a positive woman. Pay attention to what others are saying around you and to how much of it is negative vs. positive. You may be amazed at the negativity you absorb on a daily basis just by being at work, at school, in public and even at home!

We know a positive attitude makes everything in life better and more successful, right? And the only people who argue with that are the negative ones whose sole purpose it is to get attention by complaining and bring other people down because they refuse to try "positive" on for size and take responsibility for their own life. If that sounded callus, really think about it and realize that we've all been in that mindset before and although it is a rut, it is escapable with effort and intent. The challenge: most people find it easier to complain about their situation and blame other people for putting them in it.

Whether our negative situations were reached or helped along by others, complaining just makes things worse and positive women know this.

1. When you blame others you give them power. If you blame them for where or what you are, you give them power over you.
2. Complaining is negative and negative has detrimental affects the body, mind and spirit. You cannot be healthy mentally and emotionally for your relationships when you are negative. You can't stay healthy physically when you are negative and if you look healthy on the outside while being negative, be careful of what you can't see that's going on inside.

When you feel like complaining, as all women do at one time or another, practice gratitude; it will change your world!

1. If you are unhappy with a coworker, say, "I am so grateful to have a job," because many women would love to have your job.
2. If you are frustrated with your child, say, "I am so blessed to have a healthy child," because many women are nurturing an ill child.
3. If you are stuck in traffic and late for an appointment, say, "I am so grateful to have a vehicle (or cab fare) and someone who has scheduled time with me," because many women don't.

Notice how much better you feel counting your blessings when angry or frustrated instead of falling into the trap of complaining. Next time you feel negative, it will be even easier to quickly transform those feelings into positive energy that makes you stronger and healthier. You will find that gratitude is an important key to becoming and remaining a positive woman.