When Well-Meaning is Actually Dismissive

When Well-Meaning is Actually Dismissive

From Good Movement Draws Good Movement by Terryn Drieling

June 2, 2026 · 14 min · Episode 137

About this episode

The episode discusses how well-meaning comments can be dismissive and emphasizes the importance of presence and listening in difficult times.

Sometimes, the people who love us most say things with the very best intentions. Unfortunately, they can still land in a way that feels painful. In today's episode, I'm talking about what happens when well-meaning is actually dismissive. Through experiences like losing my dad, navigating cancer, and living through devastating fires, I've become more aware of how quick we are to search for silver linings or make someone feel better. At the end of the day, people don't always need us to have the "perfect" words. They need us to sit beside them, truly listen, and say, "I see you." If this conversation resonates and you're ready to go deeper on your healing journey, I'd love to support you. You can schedule a free 30-minute call with me to talk about 1:1 Good Movement Guidance . Make sure to mention "castpod" when you book to receive 10% off! In this episode, I cover: Why “well-meaning” responses can sometimes feel dismissive Common phrases that unintentionally gloss over grief or hard emotions Why validation matters more than silver linings in difficult moments The reminder that multiple experiences & perspectives can both be true Why we don’t get to choose our feelings How our…

People in this episode

Host: Terryn Drieling

Topics covered

  • emotional support
  • grief
  • validation
  • listening
  • presence
  • healing journey

Keywords

  • well-meaning
  • dismissive
  • grief
  • validation
  • emotions
  • listening
  • support

More episodes of Good Movement Draws Good Movement

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Good Movement Draws Good Movement podcast page.