Anonymous wrote:Tell her that you understand her commute is rough, but there is nothing you can do about it. You can't magically wave a wand to make it better or buy her a house closer.
Tell her, "Larla, I understand your commute is rough. I'm sorry. But it isn't something that is within my control. And, frankly, constantly hearing about it is affecting my productivity. You are here now, so let's focus on work."
And then whenever she starts to talk about the commute, politely excuse yourself, "I have to get back to work" or "I have to use the restroom" or whatever.
If it still continues, tell her that if it is making her that miserable, then she should either move, change jobs, or seek counseling.
And then if none of that works -- if you've been clear with her that you can't take the complaining -- then tell her that at this point, her constant complaining is affecting your work. Give it a week. If she doesn't stop, complain to a manager.
This way, you are being clear with her, giving her a chance to stop, letting her know that you understand but it isn't a problem you can solve, letting her know that it is affecting your work (that you feel like you need to complain every day about her complaining about her commute). You have to clearly articulate that her actions are making you miserable. And then you give her a chance to improve (at least a week). And then at that point, you go to the supervisor.
I think that, as a good rule of thumb to never tell anyone at work that your productivity is suffering.
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