Being a supportive person to another person is not always easy, but it can make a big difference in someone's life. Here are some ways to be supportive to someone:
1. Listen to them without judging or interrupting. Sometimes they just need someone to vent to or share their feelings with.
2. Validate their emotions and experiences. Let them know that you understand what they are going through and that it is okay to feel whatever they are feeling.
3. Encourage them to seek help if they need it. Whether it is professional, medical, or spiritual, help them find the resources they need and support their decision to get help.
4. Offer practical assistance if you can. For example, you can help them with chores, errands, or tasks that they are struggling with or overwhelmed by.
5. Be there for them in times of crisis. Don't abandon them when they are facing a difficult situation or a major challenge. Stay in touch and check on them regularly.
6. Celebrate their achievements and successes. Congratulate them on their accomplishments and praise their efforts. Show them that you are proud of them and happy for them.
7. Respect their boundaries and preferences. Don't pressure them to do things they don't want to do or make decisions for them. Let them have their own space and autonomy.
8. Give them honest and constructive feedback. Don't sugarcoat or lie to them, but don't be harsh or critical either. Help them improve and grow by pointing out their strengths and areas of improvement.
9. Be loyal and trustworthy. Don't gossip about them or betray their trust. Keep their secrets and confidences. Stand up for them when they are being mistreated or misunderstood.
10. Show them affection and appreciation. Give them hugs, compliments, or gifts. Tell them that you love them and that you are grateful for their presence in your life.
11. Have fun with them and make them laugh. Share jokes, stories, or memes with them. Do activities that they enjoy or try something new together. Make them smile and forget about their worries for a while.
12. Inspire and motivate them. Share your own goals and dreams with them and encourage them to pursue theirs. Challenge them to step out of their comfort zone and try new things. Remind them of their potential and capabilities.
13. Be yourself and be consistent. Don't pretend to be someone you are not or change your behavior depending on the situation. Be genuine and authentic with them. Show them that you are reliable and dependable.
*Bing AI created the images.
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Thursday Thirteen is played by lots of people; there is a list here if you want to read other Thursday Thirteens and/or play along. I've been playing for a while, and this is my 812th time to do a list of 13 on a Thursday. Or so sayth the Blogger counter, anyway.
All good points. It's so hard to do well. I'm getting ready to do co-counseling with a friend. We did it years ago but it fell away. I'm out of practice!
ReplyDeleteA wonderful list!
ReplyDelete#1 is so true. Plus, when listening, don't offer advice that isn't wanted. Sometimes people just want to vent, and offering a "solution" is not helpful.
ReplyDelete#7 is so hard for me! I want to protect people but sometimes I can't and it's frustrating.
ReplyDelete