Don’t Vent…Solve
We’ve all heard the expression before. Most of us have either been offered the opportunity to vent to someone or have offered to let someone vent to us. While this can absolutely provide a cathartic release at times, it is not always the best use of time.
I’m not saying you should never express yourself. However, I do think that venting for the sake of venting is not only unproductive—it can be counterproductive. Whether it’s a professional or personal problem, a challenge or any situation that requires a solution, venting can very quickly spiral into complaints and negativity. While it is helpful to release emotions, to share with others, and to let others share with you, we need to keep things in perspective.
I prefer not to rant or even vent. I prefer to pragmatically discuss obstacles and issues in a way that leads to some sort of actionable outcome. Complaining about something rarely makes it better. In any meaningful conversation, there should be some level of collaborative ideation—something that moves the subject of the “vent” closer to a better result.
Not all situations are the same. There is no one-size-fits-all advice. But broadly speaking, I believe many venting sessions are counterproductive and can consume time that would be better invested in solving the challenge at hand. Talking about it may help—but it should be done in moderation and with intention. Avoid conversations that spiral into negativity. Focus instead on what you can do to improve the situation, rather than simply reinforcing what feels wrong.
For me, that has never been a good use of time and seldom makes me feel better. More importantly, it doesn’t actually improve the situation—no matter how justified the feelings may be.
Maybe the next time someone offers to let you vent, and you have something you’re working through, you take them up on it. But consider quickly channeling that emotion into constructive conversation—one that helps you move toward a solution or at least closer to a more desirable outcome.
By Chris Sinclair
Founder, The Anthem Group
