The Complaint Free World site FAQ describes the basic concern:
CBC Television's coverage of a Complaint-Free World wisely includes a segment of Monty Python's Four Yorkshiremen, for whom complaining seems to be a sort of entertainment. The FAQ references but does not cite studies that "
- Wear a Complaint Free purple bracelet or rubber band (and switch wrists if you complain) 7 times per week
- Think of something you complain about. Write down what would happen if it were resolved positively once per week
- Complain/switch your bracelet fewer times today than you did yesterday 7 times per week
- Write down how many days you've gone without complaining in your Goals on-the-go booklet at least once per day
- If something upsets you, speak directly and only to a person who can change the situation at least once per day
- Check in with a complaint-free partner or with the group’s message board at least 3 times per week
- A complaint can be an excuse not to act. Take action toward an important goal before going to bed once per day
- Actively show gratitude by telling someone in your life how much you appreciate them at least once per day
Community comments
Nice Idea!
by Mishkin Berteig,
Re: Nice Idea!
by Tobias Mayer,
good idea
by James Richardson,
Nice Idea!
by Mishkin Berteig,
Your message is awaiting moderation. Thank you for participating in the discussion.
I think this could be nicely tied in with appreciative inquiry. It would change the nature of retrospectives for a lot of teams as well.
Re: Nice Idea!
by Tobias Mayer,
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I agree. Complaining is incredibly boring, for everyone. In the retrospectives I run with teams I always (and continuously) ask the question: what are YOU going to do about it?
During the last section of the retrospective all team members pair up and make commitments to each other for positive change -- just small things, that can be achieved in a week or two weeks. They actually write these down on 3x5 cards, sign them and have their partner sign them too. It is the partner's job to ensure the commitment can be met, and accepted (think acceptance criteria). The cards are displayed on the wall by the story board. This keeps the focus on positive resolution, and away from whining and complaining.
Nice post. Thanks.
good idea
by James Richardson,
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nothing like bringing religion into IT. I'm sure it will all work much better with God (whichever one suits) on your side.