Saying "It could be worse, Doesn't Make Things Better

Saying "It could be worse, Doesn't Make Things Better

Even though communication is often more than just the words we choose to say, words do matter. When someone is hurting, physically or emotionally, the best thing you can do is to provide comfort to them. Telling them that "things could be worse" not only isn't going to provide comfort, it can be seen as dismissing their pain. Right now, with the pandemic, a lot of people are hurting; they may be grieving for a lost friend or family member, for the loss of a job, or even for just the loss of normalcy. It's a tough time in which we all need some kindness.

I received a publication in the mail this weekend with a letter about how things now could be worse and made comparisons to the 1918 Spanish Flu epidemic. I expect the author was trying to add perspective, although I can't be certain of intent. I do know that the grief of a family that recently buried a loved one isn't lessened by knowing that families in 1918 sometimes had to dig their own loved ones' graves.

I think the author could have benefited by taking a moment to THINK about his message. It's really important to follow this before you speak to someone who is upset, or hurt, or suffering,

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T - is it True?

H - is it Helpful?

I - is it Inspiring?

N - is it Necessary?

K - is it Kind?

When in doubt, stick to the tried and true statements such as "I'm sorry you are going through this," or "You are in my thoughts (and prayers)." Offer to listen if they want to talk, but don't dismiss them with "It could be worse..."Even though communication is often more than just the words we choose to say, words do matter. When someone is hurting, physically or emotionally, the best thing you can do is to provide comfort to them. Telling them that "things could be worse" not only isn't going to provide comfort, it can be seen as dismissing their pain. Right now, with the pandemic, a lot of people are hurting; they may be grieving for a lost friend or family member, for the loss of a job, or even for just the loss of normalcy. It's a tough time in which we all need some kindness.


Roz Weitzman

🔹 Empowering Newcomers to Succeed in Canada 🔹 English Language Skills for Work & Daily Life 🔹

4y

I agree with this!

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