To add to this: 4) If something is outside of you or your recipient's control, don't worry about it - complaining about it is at best gossip and at worst agita

To add to this: 4) If something is outside of you or your recipient's control, don't worry about it - complaining about it is at best gossip and at worst agitating 5) Part of your job is to help your managers make good decisions. Even if they made a bad decision, it's their responsibility and your job is over. No need to dwell on it. A lot of people don't seem to know where the line is between being constructive and petulant. Or they are under the mistaken belief that complaining about things makes them seem intelligent or interesting.