> * Validate + not solve: Most people will be annoyed

Actually, if they came to vent about a problem that they don't view as solvable, then validation only is what they're looking for.

e.g. When your partner tells you about their difficult day at work, or your friend tells you about a bad date that they had, they're not usually asking for advice. They just want emotional support.

Spotting when this is the case is useful. Trying to solve it when validation and empathy is what's wanted can be the more annoying response.

https://medium.com/musings-with-meg/the-first-question-you-s...