Blogs on Teaching and Living in Thailand

My-o-my, I could probably write a book on the subject. That’s right, Thailand has its fair share of chronic complainers, or rather, teachers who feel they’re entitled to bring down the morale in the staff room with their daily dose of negativity by spouting out what I consider mostly garbage about the Thai education system, Thai teachers, the school they’re based at, Thailand, Thai people, Thai culture, Thai food, and everything in between!

Dealing with chronic complainers in a Thai school setting can be challenging, but there are a few things you can do to avoid them. Here are some useful tips:

If you find yourself constantly listening to a chronic complainer, it's important to set boundaries. Politely let them know that you have work to do and that you cannot engage in lengthy conversations.

Don't let the complainer bring you down. Stay positive and focus on the good things in your work and life.

When a complainer comes to you with a problem, try to offer solutions instead of just commiserating. Ask them what they think would help the situation and offer your own suggestions.

If you know someone who is particularly prone to complaining, try to redirect their energy towards something positive. Ask them about their hobbies or interests outside of work, or suggest a new project or activity that they might enjoy.

If the advice above hasn’t worked and the complaining is still causing a toxic work environment, it may be necessary to address the issue directly. Talk to the teacher privately and let them know how their behavior is affecting all the teachers. Offer suggestions for how they can improve their attitude and behavior.

Chronic complainers are almost always stuck in their little world of theirs. They’ve often been residing in Thailand for a very long time, suffer from depression, homesickness or both. Many are escapees from their country of origin. There was nothing they enjoyed there either.

When I first started out teaching English in Thailand, I’d listen, probably because I felt sorry for them, or felt that they needed a shoulder to cry on, but not anymore, listening the their complaints day in day out was depressing and it eventually led to finding myself doubting my very presence in Thailand. I simply couldn’t keep an open mind and try to see things from their perspective anymore. It all became too much for me.

Personally, I like to associate myself with positive people and pick up positive vibes. I keep my distance from Thailand haters, bashers, complainers; I’ve learned this from experience. I feel happier that way!

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Blog by Teacher Scooby

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Note that the author of the blog is expressing personal thoughts and musings, which do not necessarily reflect those of KruTeacher. Therefore, KruTeacher.com cannot be held responsible for any potential inaccuracies that may be present in the blog.