Being There for Those Who Need It
It's not easy to watch a teammate dealing with painful things such as a break-up, divorce, illness, or even the death of the dearest. But empathy shouldn't be reserved for serious occasions only. Every day we affect people around us, particularly our mates, friends, or family, by our mood, actions, perspective. Get into the habit of radiating happiness and warmth with these simple daily actions:
Be an Active Listener
Listening is a good way to show that you care for someone who is hurting and they will be heard. Try not to get distracted by checking the phone or talking to others. Keep eye contact during the conversation to let them see you are engaged.
Ask Open-ended Questions
Open-ended questions can promote a deeper interest in your friend's experience. Ask questions about emotions and feelings. "Is there anything I can do for you?" is an absolutely pertinent question in this situation to make life easier for your mate.
Prioritize Time with Your Mate
Tell your friend that you are the person to lean on and you can be available for calls any time of day or night. Spend more time with them to prevent their isolation. Your offers of some enjoyable experiences can bring cheer to your friend.
Provide Them Physical Comfort
Fewer than all people appreciate touching. But sometimes a hug for friends or patting on their head conveys the healing message that you are here for them and they can be safe with you. If you're not so close with your colleague, you can use the quick hug emoticons.
Send the Small Gifts
Even a card can remind your friend that you still care. By sending a gift you can cheer up and make everyone smile. Whether it's a compliment, cookies, flowers, remembrance, or funny pictures mailed, everything here is good not to let your mates feel like they are suffering alone.
Distracting Your Mate
A cycle of negativity is tantalizing, and negative attitudes towards life are contagious, tainting everybody around. In case your friends are facing hard times, your words will bring a higher impact on them than usual. You shouldn't sound superficial, it's better to focus on the positive elements in life, speaking them out. All you should do is to stay positive:
Offer to Try Something New
Involve your mate in a new project. Starting a new activity or doing something unusual is a great distraction that increases happiness. This helps people get out of the shell and think about the new thing instead of focusing on whatever it is they are upset about.
Go Out Together
Changing scenery often helps distract someone from upsetting thoughts. Spare time on walking or a trip. Pay his or her attention to unusual sights, the color of the sky, or some funny scenes around, but avoid talking about the problem.
Go to a Movie
Movies can be a great way to keep it light and enjoyable. Avoid upsetting picture plays. Death or break-ups are the wrong hallmarks for choice. The movie should keep your friend's mind off the existing troubles, at least for a little while.
Behave Like Children
Don't be shy about doing silly things together like snow angels, silly arts or poems, skipping or jumping instead of walking. Silliness is the best pain distractor, that encourages smiles and laughter and grants a stroll back in time to childhood.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Your talks should never be idle. Things like "Cheer up!" said to someone who struggles with depression are howlers. It's somehow about showing personal discomfort about his or her unhappiness. You should allow the mates to be sad and let them experience emotions, support them, keeping in mind that two in distress make sorrow less. Find out the most common mistakes you should avoid while interfering with grief:
- Never go in confrontation with a friend in pain;
- Avoid to repeat the stories of how you've overcome similar circumstances;
- Don't focus away on yourself instead of a friend;
- You shouldn't tell someone how to feel and react;
- Try not to offer a solution unless they ask for it;
- Never ignore the need of seeking professional help.
There are extreme situations when nobody from the staff of our cover letter writing service online can substitute medical attention, - reminds Alicia. - As soon as you notice the signs of persistent depression or self-harming, find professional help. But in most cases there are more simple ways to cheer up your mates, to bring joy and help them rediscover the fun of life.
About the Author
Gillian is a talented writer with a strong research approach in the career field. Has over 12 years of experience in resume, LinkedIn profile writing and editing. Education Master of Fine Arts, Writing Eastern Washington University.
