The "No Complaints" Challenge (For Women Only)

Here it comes! February. A month of hearts and chocolate, flowers, the color red and, for many of us, disappointment. If you’re single, this month can make you feel flawed, broken or abandoned. If you’re in a relationship, you may face the sting of unmet expectations as the culture around you pumps harder the “need” for the high they insist should come from “romance.” 

This year, spurred on by the story of my good friend Laura in a book she has written, I feel led to pursue the challenge of contentment. A.K.A. the “No Complaints” challenge. How many times a day do we notice, point out or pout about what is wrong with the picture of our lives - even if that’s in the mirror?

What if the greatest Valentine we could give to a spouse, our kids, friends, Savior and even OURSELVES is to stop complaining and truly seek to be content?

Here is how it works:

1. I’m going to choose a bracelet, or maybe a ring.
2. Every time I allow something negative or critical to come out of my mouth, I slip that ring or bracelet off and move it to the other hand.
3. I’m even bringing my kiddos in on the challenge because sometimes what I think is constructive or factual is actually critical. They can help me see that. (The husband? Maybe asking him to ride along will be his Valentine. I’m a little more sensitive to his scrutiny. Baby steps people. Baby steps!)
4. My hope is that every time I execute that switch I will become more aware of my thought patterns and as I look at and touch that pretty, little ornament, I will choose to pursue the beauty of contentment and encouragement.

Now, I still plan on being honest! It’s ok to say, “Today has been rough,” or “I’m really hurting.” But those are vulnerable statements and a far cry from, “This house is always a mess,” or “No one listens to me,” etc. 

Think of a day in which every word from your mouth was a blessing and not a curse (Deut. 30:19-20). Can you imagine the outcome? Sweeter than candy! More fragrant than any rose!  So, join me if you’d like love to outlive February.

Here’s the link to our facebook group. (Click anywhere on that last sentence.) Find the page, then private message me if you’d like to join.

"I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:12-13).