Platitudes

Platitudes are statements that we make that carry little meaning and forethought. We have all heard them and may have used them ourselves. "It is what it is," "It's no big deal," and "Nobody's perfect," are just a few examples of platitudes. They tend to diminish what the speaker is sharing. Oftentimes they put an end to the conversation because there isn't much to say after that. Imagine telling a friend that you have just been passed over for a long-awaited promotion. You are feeling devastated and confused and your friend responds with, "It's no big deal. There will be other opportunities." Is that what you were hoping to hear after you opened yourself up to being vulnerable? Most likely you would have preferred to hear, "That's terrible. I know how much this promotion meant to you and how hard you worked to earn it. What do you think happened?" Your situation has been acknowledged and you can further share your thoughts and feelings. You feel heard and supported. The same is true when someone you know shares with you. Ask yourself what you can do to be there for the other person rather than offering a platitude. When was the last time you experienced a platitude and what can you do to turn that around?