I would like to challenge you to turn complaints into a positive gift. This is what I have been doing since I can remember. There are quite a few insights I have for this method, which I plan to share someday in my book (should I ever write one).
Turning client complaints into requests is an uncommon approach I take to a common problem in business. I have literally made hundreds of thousands of dollars by doing this one little exercise. My clients have recognized this method and praised me for it.
When a complaint is presented, take a moment to remove yourself from the center of the situation and attain a fly-on-the-wall viewpoint. This may sound strange, but it really does work.
Now turn this method around for when you have a complaint for someone else. Change your approach by turning that complaint into the request that is hiding behind it. Use the complaints you hear as an opportunity to understand their problems without judgment. This process can become a trigger within you to help realize that when you feel you have a complaint, then you really need to make a request for a solution that will lessen your pain. If you can embrace this way of expressing yourself, you will lessen the pain for everyone involved, find that less time is wasted trying to find a solution and everyone is more productive all the way around.
Love and Light,
Star**