How to Stop Constant Complainers

Constant complainers are a constant in my life. How do I stop them? Well, short of ignoring them, there are some techniques that bring complainers to a screeching halt. You don't have to be rude, sarcastic or argumentative to stop constant complainers. You just have to think about their motivations and personality. Basing your strategy on those two things almost always works. Want to stop constant complainers? Try these tricks.

What if the constant complainer is an introverted attention seeker?

Be overly sympathetic. A lot of constant complainers are attention seekers. They want you to feel sorry for them. They want to be noticed. They feel left out. At the same time, most constant complainers are somewhat introverted. Too much attention makes them feel guilty and exposed. Want to stop constant complainers? Drool over their every word. Exaggerate your sympathy. They don't really want to be the center of attention. Soon they'll feel they were making a mountain out of a molehill.

What if the constant complainer is a drama queen?

Don't join in. Want to stop drama queen type constant complainers? Don't play into their drama. The more you feed the drama, the bigger the issue becomes. Try making light of the situation. Egging these drama queen types along just adds fuel to the fire. When they don't get the reaction they want from you, they'll stop complaining.

What if the constant complainer is a know it all?

Don't offer solutions, they won't take them. For some reason, this type of person wants everyone to feel sorry for them. Don't join the pity party. They don't really want your help, they just enjoy playing the victim. They will address their problems with the same solutions, over and over again. You guessed it, they always get the same results. They may not be complaining about their behavior, but I guarantee that's what got them into this mess in the first place.

What if the constant complainer just enjoys complaining?

Change the subject every time the complaints begin. This person will never let up as long as you're talking about anything remotely related to the complaint. They feel the need to illustrate their point over and over until you agree with them. Maybe they're holding a grudge. Maybe they're completely justified. Either way, there's no reason for you to be subjected to their negativity. Want to stop this type of constant complainer? Turn the conversation in a more positive direction.

What if the constant complainer has a beef with you?

Complaint about you? Say it once, then walk away. Drop it. Let it go. Don't let this person get to you. They obviously don't understand that people are human and make mistakes. Chances are, they'll grip you like a doggie chew toy and never let go. That's why you have to be the better person. Defend yourself briefly (apologize if warranted). Then just drop it. No animosity, no anger, just deal with it and let it go. If they keep complaining, they're only making themselves look bad.

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