Is venting productive during challenges?

Venting may not always be productive during challenging times. According to Andrew Huberman and cognitive scientist Maya Shankar, venting can sometimes be counterproductive. This is because when you vent, the person you talk to often provides emotional support rather than challenging your perspective, which may reinforce your negative feelings rather than help resolve the issue 1.

Instead, they suggest using techniques to gain objectivity and emotional distance from the problem. For example, considering the issue from a third-person perspective can help reduce emotional intensity and provide more sober recommendations for handling the situation. Additionally, seeking feedback that challenges your viewpoint rather than just offering sympathy can help you reframe the problem and find more constructive solutions 2.