What is the best way to let someone know they complain too much without being insensitive?

Answer 1

Well, I have realized that we all have opinions about how others behave. So, if you feel that someone complains too much, you're probably right, but pointing it out can be damaging. The best way to say something about how you are feeling towards something or someone is to simply state that it's your feelings, not necessarily the way the rest of the world views it.

So maybe say "listen, sometimes I feel that when you say "this" ( try to give an example) and when you mention stuff about "this and that" (again, try to give an example), it feels like you complain and it feels kind of heavy. Let's just be lighthearted cause sometimes I just can't handle heavy!!". Try and approach it with some humor, that's always a good ice breaker.

Answer 2

It's going to be hard to do without being insensitive, because those complainers who suck the life out of the rest of us complain because they are insecure.

The next time the person starts to say something, tell them that you believe that a person should try to change those things that bother them. Ask them what they would do to change the situation to a better outcome. Maybe it will put them in a better frame of mind to have a positive conversation.

Answer 3

If it is a good friend simply tell them in a tactful way. Ask them after a few complaints if they realize that they do this all the time and it is a downer. Tell them from then on for every thing negative they say they will have to come up with 2 positive things to say. It won't take to long before they stop doing it all together because the effort of thinking up positive things will be taxing so they will learn to have a normal conversation. Good luck

Answer 4

Maybe explain to them that thier negative attitude is not only hurting people around them but is affecting them the most. People who wallow in negativity are often not happy for other reasons. If you are close enough, maybe you could discover what this is...
a negative outlook only makes for a negative life - no matter how much good fortune befalls that person, they will never see it. Maybe point out all the good things in thier life and try to help with the not so good things.

Answer 5

dont think there is a way without being insensitive...just come out and say it, the worst that can happen is they get mad. or take the smartass approch start compaling more than them all the time, wait for them to tell you they complain to much and tell them thats what they do :D

Answer 6

Just be honest - don't beat around the bush. Ask them why they constantly complain and then bring it to their attention. They might not even realize how much they complain.

Answer 7

Tell them that your not being rude,but that they complain too much,and that if they want to talk about something that your there for them.

Answer 8

Try and remind them of all the positive things that are going on in their lives, and if that doesn't work spend as less time with them as possible being depressed is contagious.

Answer 9

Tell them that they should be more optimistic, and then tell them that they're lucky that they have (insert here) and (insert here) and (insert here), etc. You can give examples of lesser luck in life like the children in Africa, and the homeless in east Asia, and then tell them their life is not so bad at all.

Answer 10

I start repeating their complaint and when a new one comes, I repeat them both. After a while my list gets long and I say, "Boy, if you keep this up, I am going to have to get a notebook and keep up with your whining.