“Rarely can a response make something better. What makes something better is connection.” -Brene Brown
When someone shares something painful that they are experiencing, how many of us are guilty of jumping straight into problem-solving mode? Or “just look at the bright side”-ism?
This often comes from a place of being uncomfortable in the presence of someone’s pain, and with our inability to magically and instantly heal it for them.
However well-intended, most advice is unsolicited—and at times, also harmful.
A great alternative for any friend/work colleague/family member: “What can I do to be here for you as you experience this?”
Often, the answer will just be to listen.