Hey, not sure if “validate” is the word to use here but im wondering what’s the best way to make someone feel better when they complain/vent to you. I’ve found myself in the past taking the “at least you have this positive thing” but thinking back on it a lot of people probably just want a chance to be heard, so lately I’ve been responding more akin to “that sucks, sorry you had to go through that” but I really don’t know the best path to take.
3 comments
I say “how can I support you in this time?”
And a lot of hmmm sounds when they speak lol
Just agree with them. They’re looking for someone to agree with them so they know they aren’t the only one who feels this way. The first response can be considered dismissive of their current issue and might not be helpful, the 2nd response is much better in that regard. Sometimes my first instinct is to go with the first style of response and I have to remind myself that it’s not always helpful.