I've learned through experience that decoupling the link between your brain and your mouth can change your life and make you a better person.
Years ago on HN I discovered the No Complaining Challenge[1]. I took the challenge, and continued it far beyond the 21 days, because it took me about 6 months to go 21 straight days without complaining. It took me some number of weeks to realize that the "let it all out" and "get it off your chest" thing is a myth that makes things worse rather than better. I discovered that I needed to reprogram my brain to complete the challenge. And the amazing thing to me was the discovery that it is indeed possible for me to program my brain, and to change how I think. It made me a better person, and I still years later strive not to complain. Recently I've also begun working hard not to judge other people, and let people be who they are.
Seneca also talks about how to train your brain to make yourself happier[2].
Years ago on HN I discovered the No Complaining Challenge[1]. I took the challenge, and continued it far beyond the 21 days, because it took me about 6 months to go 21 straight days without complaining. It took me some number of weeks to realize that the "let it all out" and "get it off your chest" thing is a myth that makes things worse rather than better. I discovered that I needed to reprogram my brain to complete the challenge. And the amazing thing to me was the discovery that it is indeed possible for me to program my brain, and to change how I think. It made me a better person, and I still years later strive not to complain. Recently I've also begun working hard not to judge other people, and let people be who they are.
Seneca also talks about how to train your brain to make yourself happier[2].
[1] http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tim-ferriss/no-complaint-exper...
[2] "Letters from a Stoic" is a good place to start. https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/93900-epistulae-morale...