Validating emotions can be one of the most effective ways to improve relationships. When someone is frustrated with (for example) a busy day that just never seemed to slow down, choose one emotion you’re seeing and reflect it back to them. 

“Man, that sounds stressful. I'm so sorry you're going through that.” 

Here, we aren’t trying to problem-solve or share our own similar story. We are simply letting them know we hear them and recognize their mood. 

It can feel awkward at first to not offer more information, support, or feedback, but sometimes this simple gesture can go a long way!