Hey LiberationProject-fam!๐
As my experience with coaching, and life in general, grows, I realise that one of the areas I get a lot of questions, observations, concerns, and frustrations from clients when it comes to relationships fall under the broad category of receiving, or lack thereof, Emotional Support.
It seems like the understanding around this subject is mostly abstract. Most people, especially men, find it hard to translate what emotional support means in real terms. What does it look, sound and feel like? What ‘actions’ can it take the form of?
Hence, this post with practical tips and simple dos & don’ts that will assist anyone who has ever felt lost and asked themselves what it means to be ‘emotionally there’ for their significant others, friends, and family.
This post is intended to help you, through awareness, to be there for your loved ones emotionally in times of need in tangible ways that will make them feel deeply supported, cared for, understood, heard, and show your love and thoughtfulness in in ways beyond words leading to nurturing your bond effortlessly.
So, what’s the real deal when it comes to emotional support๐ค๐
It's not just a catchphrase; it's about standing by your loved ones when they need it most.
What can you do?
๐Listen with an Open Heart: Sometimes, all someone needs is a listening ear. Sit down, put away distractions, and lend them your full attention. Let them express themselves without judgment or interruption.
๐คOffer a Shoulder to Lean On: Emotional support means being that sturdy shoulder your friend can lean on. Whether through a hug, holding hands or just being fully present with them, shows that you're here for them, no matter what.
๐คAsk Thoughtful Questions: Assumptions are the killer of genuine support. You can never truly know how the other person is feeling so how can you know for sure what their true needs are? One of the easiest ways to being emotionally present is to ask them what you can do for them. Some examples of thoughtful questions are – “What do you need right now”? “Is there anything I can do to make it easier for you”? “How can I help”? “How can I best support you through this”? “Tell me what you need”. Any variations of these will do.
๐ฃValidation and Affirmations: Remind them that their feelings are valid. Offer words of encouragement and let them know that you believe in them, love them unconditionally and that you are there for them no matter what. Just knowing that they have your loving support in and of itself will make all the difference in the world to them, because they won’t feel totally alone and isolated in their struggle anymore.
๐ฌCheck-in Regularly: Every so often ask them how they are feeling? If there’s anything you can do? A heartfelt text, call, or even a surprise visit shows that you genuinely care. It reiterates for them that they have you by their side.
๐Acts of Kindness: Small gestures can have a big impact. Send them their favourite treat, a handwritten note, or anything that would help make their life easier, doing something to take some load off their mind etc. to let them know you're thinking of them.
It really doesn’t take a lot. If ever in doubt, think what would make you feel supported if you were in their shoes? What would you need in a situation as theirs? And/or just ask them what they need.
๐ซDos and Don'ts: Here's a quick guide:
Dos:
Respect their privacy; let them share at their own pace.
Offer help, like running errands or doing chores.
Respect their feelings, even if you don't fully understand.
Show them love in the way they like, speak their love language.
Ask them how they need to be supported.
Be patient; healing takes time.
Don'ts:
Don't minimise their feelings; "It's not a big deal" is not helpful at all.
Don't give unsolicited advice; sometimes, just listening is enough.
Don't compare their situation to yours or someone else's.
Don't force them to talk; let them open up as and when they're ready.
Don't judge or criticise their emotions (or anything else).
Emotional support is about creating a safe space where someone can be vulnerable without fear of judgment. Be the light in their life when things get tough. Treat them with love and kindness๐ช๐
#EmotionalSupportMatters #BeThereForOneAnother #SpreadLoveAndKindness
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