Many individuals have been within the following state of affairs: You start opening up about your struggles to a buddy or member of the family, only for them to show it right into a dialog in regards to the one time they struggled with one thing comparable. The objective is mostly that will help you really feel much less alone, however it would not at all times come off as honest.
Whereas offering help from your personal expertise is nice, it is best to provide your buddy or beloved one the possibility to share their emotions earlier than citing your personal—this may remind them that you simply’re right here to hear.
It is not at all times about discovering the best phrases, Caraballo says, however extra about speaking a “spirit of care and concern” than the rest—and retaining your consideration on them fairly than your self will allow you to accomplish that.
Now, in case your buddy or beloved one asks if in case you have any recommendation, or for those who can relate, then completely share your expertise. Simply do not make it the very first thing you say to them, as every individual’s expertise is exclusive, even when they appear comparable on the floor.