Volume2, Issue 12 - December 2001

The Dangers of
"Whine" & Cheese Parties

When I worked in "Corporate America", I used to have lunch everyday with my group of friends. I had just moved to Toronto, started a new job, and didn't know anyone - and I needed friends. I'm sure that many of you can relate to that. Well, I quickly found out that lunchtime was a very important part of the day for a few of my friends. It was their chance to complain about the work, the boss, their co-workers and clients. The entire hour was spent complaining!

Now, I have to be honest - most of it was pretty funny. And, it was a great way to get to know people and create friends. The problem was that after lunch I would go back to my desk and be angry and upset at people I didn't even know! Something is wrong with that picture. When job postings were circulated, I would decide if I wanted to work with that department and supervisor based on the negative gossip I heard at lunch. Looking back, I think I missed some great opportunities.

I understand that everyone needs to vent his or her frustration and emotion every once in a while. I even do that, too - sometimes. In order for that venting to become a stress reliever we need to have some rules to follow. 5 minutes each (maximum) - that's it - and then it's over! If the venting is the same thing every day, there is something wrong with that. "Get over it!" is an expression that we all hear and in this case it applies. Make decisions, if you are that unhappy, do something about it - but complaining does nothing.

For the rest of "The Dangers of "Whine" & Cheese Parties", please check out "Dealing with Difficult People" website.

Rhonda Scharf (Finniss) is a Professional Speaker, Trainer and Consultant and President of ON THE RIGHT TRACK - Training & Consulting and is available to deliver customized workshops or keynote speeches at your next convention. Call today at 1-877-213-8608 or e-mail Rhonda@on-the-right-track.com. Since you are now visiting her site, sign up here for her complimentary quarterly newsletter.