cross-posted from: https://linux.community/post/906126
I’ve observed if I say nothing (because I simply don’t know how to react), opinionated people think you agree with them, which I don’t. I don’t care.
what I want to tell him, next time he starts ranting: ‘I don’t care what you think, leave me alone’.
However, I may have to work with this person in the future, so what about ‘you don’t have to tell me everything you think, most of the time I don’t pay attention’ and if he keeps pushing it ‘it’s tiring working with a person who has to rant to feel good, it’s boring and makes me ignore you, which is a problem, because we work together.’ And leave.
What about ‘everybody has problems, maybe talk to a therapist? I cannot help you’.
Or maybe simply leaving when he starts his rants?
When poeple went on political rants at work I would say “let’s play a game. It’s called Don’t Talk Politics at Work. I’ll go first!” Then I would shut up, turn around and keep on working. Just replace politics with whatever. It’s low key funny with a deadpan delivery so I’ve never had anyone get mad at me for it.
I can never keep a straight face so deadpan is my go to brand of humour
I tried being self deprecating but people don’t like humour that punches down