hate the game, not the player

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, "Hate the game, not the player." 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, hate the game, not the player!" Hate the game, not the player—and accept that you've got to start schmoozing and networking too if you want to get ahead.