Inspired once more by my fabulous teacher, Ana Forrest, I have embarked on a 32 Day #nobitchingcontest.

That’s right, I’m a woman, and I’m committing to not bitching for 32 days. Not to mention that the decision comes just before receiving some potentially life-changing news (it’s not life-or-death, so it’s not so serious, just the kind that leaves you thinking, fuck, what is my next move going to be).

So, I hope you’re wondering how I’m going to do this?

Every time I open my whiny mouth, I shall catch it, hopefully before I’ve word vomited it all out, and revert my attention to something more positive and proactive.

Instead of focusing on the negative side of the problem, I’m going to focus on what I can do now to change it, and if not, just take a breath and fill my head with fresh ideas, new sources of energy, meditation and yoga.

So, I invite you to join me in doing your own #nobitchingcontest.

Here’s how:

• Begin by noticing when you’re bitching. Like “Oh no, who left the door open and let the puppy jump on the bed and pee on it.” And the, “Oh woe is me, what am I going to do with my life. I have no money and no time and I’m fat and I haven’t showered all day.” Any little thing like that.

• When you notice it, see if you can start responding to it differently. Instead of being like, “Oh fuck, I complained again.” Rather say to yourself, “Oops, that’s a funny thing to complain about, and really not all that bad. He’s a puppy and he’s cute.”

• Start meditating. Seriously. It’s really quite an exceptional thing to do to help change your frame of mind and react better to most challenging situations. Give it a whirl.

• Write about it. Write down any recurring patterns that you might notice, for example, if you tend to resort to complaining about money or relationships when you can’t think of anything else to complain about. If it helps, write down what you can do that doesn’t require spending money instead of dwelling on what you can’t do.

And, lastly, I want to hear from you.

Some of the best inspiration comes from other people’s perspectives and experiences so give it a try and let’s hear it!

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Apprentice Editor: Brandie Smith/Editor: Travis May

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