Your readers appreciate your writing, so keep on posting. Thanks.

It is also important to cultivate “objective interests.”

In other words, try to develop hobbies that compel you to step outside of your comfort zone. When you feel like being critical, why are you wasting time on it? Don’t you think it’s better to go surfing like Srini? Or, take care of a few household chores? How about running a few errands? Or, read a book in your local library. Go swimming or work-out in the gym. Meditate daily.

“An idle mind is a devil’s workshop,” goes the saying. Whenever I am in a negative frame of mind, I go for a casual stroll in the outdoors and return feeling refreshed. I don’t feel cranky anymore. We all need to learn how to spend alone time and enjoy our own company. By all means, make as many friends as you want. However, your happiness should not depend on their friendship.

Ultimately, we all have to figure out a way to live with ourselves. You can be your best friend or worst enemy. Being critical of others, dwelling on past mistakes, etc. are counter-productive. The important thing to remember is to move forward.