Go ahead, let it out…

For some reason I find something very soothing about venting. There seems to be no easier way for me to release all of my stress and tension then to complain about it to my friends.  Sometimes a hearty rant can solve all of my problems. But are there guidelines to complaining?

Who are you complaining to?

Everyone has his or her group of close friends who are always up for a good rant fest. But have you ever made the mistake of complaining to a nosy coworker, and suddenly you go on lunch and realize you’re in a feud with Sally from accounting and you don’t even know why? That’s because you broke the cardinal rule of venting to an untrusting person.

One thing to remember is that you’re never too old for gossip, especially in the workplace.  So while honesty is the best policy, maybe save some of your more candid truths for more trustworthy people.

Release that negativity!

I believe there is serious power in letting all your negative thoughts and emotions out, and saying them can be just as much of a therapeutic experience as writing them.

I used to see my friends every day of my life, now unfortunately adulthood has torn us apart and I only get to see them when we have breaks from school or work. The only good thing about this age-shift is that when we do see each other, instead of doing a whole lot of nothing like we would in high school, we get to catch up and complain about each and every part of our lives. We vent to one another about our problems, than we make fun of each other and laugh for hours. I am left feeling totally and completely more positive about my life because I’ve had the reassurance that others feel exactly how I feel, and that I have the most amazing friends in the entire world.

Can they relate?

If you’re complaining to a trustworthy person but they definitely aren’t your best friend, then you may want to filter what you complain about. Chances are they aren’t going to want to hear your hour-long rant about your nail color.

Also, be smart.  Don’t complain about money problems to someone who’s just lost their job or something trivial to someone going through a really trying time. Use your judgment.

What are you getting out of it?

You should never complain just for the sake of complaining, because then you’ll just be a person no one wants to be around.  Instead, make sure it’s a learning experience that’s helping you get to the root of an issue and maybe even helping you figure out why you’re truly upset.

This is why I find it so important to share your thoughts with a friend, someone that will not only sympathize with your problems but also give you healthy advice in return.  It’s great to vent to someone who will listen, but its even better with someone who is willing to be open and honest with you in return.

Know your limits

Vent in small doses. Although complaining can make you feel better about a certain situation, not even the best of your friends will want to hear about your same problem over and over again. If venting isn’t helping you release your stress, you may need to try another method. Perhaps give meditation or yoga a try—but undoubtedly the best remedy for a stressful life is laughter. Get together with the people in your life who make you feel good, and avoid the “stress-inducers.”

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