I thought that this article from an American site might ring a few bells with some on this bulletin board. In particular I draw your attention to habit No. 14 part of which I set out below: "14. Be critical. Make sure to have an endless list of dislikes and voice them often, whether or not your opinion is solicited. For example, don’t hesitate to say, “That’s what you chose to wear this morning?” or “Why is your voice so shrill?” If someone is eating eggs, tell them you don’t like eggs. Your negativity can be applied to almost anything. It helps if the things you criticize are well liked by most people so that your dislike of them sets you apart." http://www.alternet.org/personal-health/14-habits-highly-miserable-people Hope this helps