When someone says You’re doing the best you can, that’s all that matters, it can be both comforting and frustrating at the same time. On one hand, it acknowledges our efforts and implies that we’re doing our best, which can be reassuring. On the other hand, it can also come across as dismissive, implying that we’re not striving for more or that our current efforts are sufficient.

To handle this situation effectively, it’s essential to respond in a way that acknowledges the sentiment while also conveying our own emotions and needs. Here are some strategies to help you navigate this conversation:

Acknowledge and validate their intention
Responding with gratitude and appreciation can help set a positive tone for the conversation. You can say:

Thank you for understanding and acknowledging my efforts. That means a lot to me.

I appreciate your encouragement, it really helps me feel more confident.

Express your concerns and emotions
It’s essential to express your feelings and concerns in a non-confrontational manner. You can say:

I understand where you’re coming from, but sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough. Can we discuss ways to improve my performance?

I appreciate your support, but I’m still feeling a bit frustrated with my progress. Can we brainstorm some new strategies together?

Seek clarification and guidance
If you’re unsure what the other person means or wants from you, ask clarifying questions to gain a better understanding. You can say:

What do you think I’m doing well, and what areas do you think I need to improve on?

Can you give me some specific examples of what you mean by ‘doing my best’? I want to make sure I’m meeting your expectations.

Set boundaries and assert your needs
If you feel like the comment is dismissive or unhelpful, it’s crucial to communicate your needs and set boundaries. You can say:

I appreciate your optimism, but I’m not feeling satisfied with my current performance. Can we discuss some additional resources or support that could help me improve?

I understand where you’re coming from, but as someone who cares about my work, I need more constructive feedback to grow. Can we focus on specific areas for improvement?

Redirect the conversation to a solution-focused approach
Instead of getting stuck on the you’re doing your best comment, steer the conversation towards finding solutions and making progress. You can say:

Let’s discuss some strategies to help me improve my skills. What do you think would be the most effective way to achieve that?

I’m eager to learn and grow. What are some areas where you think I could focus on for improvement?

In conclusion, responding to You’re doing the best you can, that’s all that matters requires empathy, self-awareness, and effective communication skills. By acknowledging the sentiment, expressing your concerns, seeking clarification, setting boundaries, and redirecting the conversation to a solution-focused approach, you can turn a potentially awkward conversation into a productive and empowering experience. Remember, it’s not about seeking validation or justification, but about growing, learning, and striving to be our best selves.

Be kind ❤