This can very often be a reach for empathy and understanding when somebody says, “It has been a long day.” Your reaction can play a very important role in improving your mood and providing the support required by that person.
Detailed below are responses one can offer with tips on being supportive.
Show Empathy Â
“I am so sorry to hear about this. It sounds like today wasn’t very nice to you, huh? If you feel comfortable, I am here and will listen if you feel like you need to talk.”
Why It Works: This response identifies with their feelings and opens up the possibility of them sharing, should they wish to do so.
It lets them know that you’re interested in their emotional state and are willing to provide a safe place for sharing if they desire.
Offer Support Â
“It seems like you could use a little rest. Is there anything I could do for you that would help you relax? Maybe I could bring over your favorite snack or help with some chores?”
Why It Works: By offering tangible support, this kind indicates that you are doing something about improving their condition. It conveys that you’ve recognized their pain and are working to improve it, however insignificantly.
Suggest a Relaxation Activity Â
“How about a cup of coffee or a little walk? The fresh air will do you good, and a change of scene may lighten your mood.”
Why It Works: This engages them in an activity that might involve them in something pleasurable and, therefore, can rest their minds on it. It may also lead to some positive social interaction, as it makes them reach out for company.
Share a Positive ThoughtÂ
“I know today was rough, but remember, tomorrow is a whole new day! What do you say? Let’s plan something fun for this weekend to look forward to.”
Why It Works: This response helps shift their focus from the negativity of the day to the possibilities of tomorrow. It encourages a hopeful mindset and gives them something to look forward to.
Ask Open Ended QuestionsÂ
“What made today feel so long for you? Sometimes talking about it helps.”
Why it works: Open-ended questions invite them to share as much of their experience and feelings as they wish.
This can be very cathartic and might further let you understand the situation more clearly, therefore enriching your support.
Listen Actively
When they start to express themselves, give them your full attention. Keep nodding, maintaining eye contact, and responding appropriately to display that you are listening, but do not interrupt them at all, for that may give them the feeling that you are not hearing them.
Be Present
Sometimes, it means just being there, whether in person or on the phone. You’ll sit together in silence at other times, and that, in and of itself, is comforting. Let your loved one know you are there for support and to help, even if they don’t feel like talking at all.
Avoid Minimizing Their FeelingsÂ
Avoid such answers as “It could be worse” or “Just get over it.” Validate the feelings by saying things like “It’s understandable to feel this way after a long day,” which not only acknowledges their feelings but doesn’t judge them.
Follow Up LaterÂ
Check up on them after a day or two. You can just say something like, “Hey, I just wanted to think about you. How was your day?
” It is an extremely easy way to let a person know that one genuinely cares about them and is interested in what is happening in their life.
Encourage Self CareÂ
Suggest activities that can help them get their energy back; this could be taking a warm bath or doing some yoga. You would want to say, “You might want to run a bath or do some yoga; it could help to relax you.
” This, therefore, encourages a proactive approach toward managing stress.
Responses to it have been a long day
- “Aw, sorry to hear that. Sounds like you’ve had a real bad day.”
- “If you want to talk about it, I’m here to listen.”
- “How about we grab a cup of coffee or go for a little walk?”
- “Maybe something soothing like a warm bath is in order?”
- “I know today was tough, but tomorrow starts a whole new day.”
- “What made today feel so long to you?”
- “That is very understandable after a day like this.”
- “Is there anything that I can do to help you unwind?”
- “Want to watch a movie or play a game together?”
- “I get it, we all have those days.”
- “Have you tried any mindfulness exercises? They can be really helpful.”
- “I will check in with you tomorrow to see how you’re feeling.”
- “I had a long day last week, too. What was the worst for you?”
- “Let’s do something together this week. A little distraction can help!”
- “You are doing your best, and that is all that matters.”
- “Sometimes just venting can help. What’s on your mind?”
- “Sounds like you could use some comfort food. Want to order in?”
- “You need a break after a day like that. How about tending to yourself with a spa night in?”
- “I know how exhausting it can be. Take it easy tonight.”
- “Let’s plan a fun outing this weekend to help you recharge.”
- “You aren’t alone in feeling this way. I’m here for you.”
- “Want to talk about something else to take your mind off it?”
- “How about some self-care? A good book or a favorite show might do the trick.”
- “Days like these are perfectly fine; just remember to be kind.”
- “If you need a distraction, I am only a text away. Let’s chat!”
Conclusion
A response to someone who says, “It has been a long day,” empathizes, supports, understands, and may include detailed responses with some practical tips that help lighten their burden and foster connection.
Sometimes, all you can do is just be there and listen. It might be just your careful engagement that makes a difference in the day of that other person.
