don't hate the player, hate the game

cliché You should hate a system or situation rather than the people involved in it. I know you're frustrated with our local "do-nothing" politicians, but I often tell myself, "Don't hate the player, hate the game." I mean, our political system seriously limits the effectiveness of our politicians, especially if their party is not currently in power. A: "That is simply not fair. I work twice as hard as you, but you got the promotion because you play along with all the office politics." B: "Hey, don't hate the player, hate the game!" Don't hate the player, hate the game—and accept that you've got to start schmoozing and networking too if you want to get ahead.