Criticism can be helpful, even inspiring, but never — when it descends into chronic whine or becomes a way of life. If there is someone in your life that you feel especially free (or, worse, 'obliged') to criticize; try this:
• Every day for an entire month, find at least one specific thing that you will speak about positively and directly to that person.
• Explicitly encourage, express gratitude or praise them.
• Take an interest in their interests. You don't need to take on their interests or share them; but offer your curiosity and willingness, to listen as a mark of respect for who they are and what concerns them.
• Keep finding fresh, new things to comment upon positively — as well as what you praised yesterday or the day before.
• If you hear yourself begin to criticize, STOP. Leave the room.
• Only by behaving less critically will your habits of criticism begin to change.
If you feel silly or self-conscious, regard this as a tiny, private act of reparation.
You are doing this primarily to express your respect and affection for that other person and, only incidentally, to grow in self-respect.
You are not doing it for praise! And you won't stop doing it if you don't get enough praise.
Enjoy the benefits as the people around you respond, relax, rejoice.