When you complain about the negative characteristics of those around you (spouse, family, friends, etc) you put your happiness in someone else’s control. You say “I can’t be happy until you change X” where X is “love my family”, “spend time with my sisters”, or any other thing that’s wearing on you.

It’s selfish to expect someone to change their behavior solely for your satisfaction. What gives you the right change them and is that right symmetrical? Would they have the right to change you?

That’s an argument waiting to happen. Of course everyone wants to change people around them and sometimes they’re even willing to change themselves.

But in the long run it’s less stressful and more productive to just appreciate people for the positive things they bring to your life and to cherish your time together.

Be the bigger man.