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soulswimming t1_jawptwh wrote

I understand the sentiment behind this, but as someone who is often in the place of the listener (I work in a store and some regular customers like talking non-stop and ranting about their lives), I think I actually prefer to hear "sorry for ranting" than "thank you for listening". Of course "thank you for listening" is nice and appreciative, but something about that phrasing makes me feel the person has taken for granted that they can come and tell me their problems any time they want. On the other hand, "sorry for ranting" shows that the person is aware that what they are doing can be annoying and exhausting to listen to. Maybe this post refers to close relationships, but I just wanted to add my two cents.

In the end, I think it's all about balance. Don't feel and act sorry for yourself or for taking up space in the world and needing someone to listen, but don't go to the other extreme and become that person who just assumes everyone is available for you anytime you want to vent, and all you have to do is just say "thank you for listening" afterwards.

(Sorry about the grammar, English isn't my first language)

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DraxialNitris t1_jaxcevu wrote

I usually say both, "Sorry and thank you for listening"; sorry for taking their time, and thankful for them actually listening

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phorgan t1_jay1zlu wrote

Yeah, hearing people tell others to talk like this sounds a little… manipulative to me? Like, “say this to make them feel like they’re doing something to be commended rather than admitting that you’re taking their time and energy to offload your problems”.

Not that it’s bad to want someone to listen to you. But like you said, might make the person take a mile when they’re given an inch and make them feel like they can do it all the time.

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