Learn more about health with this collection
Effective note-taking techniques
Test-taking strategies
How to create a study schedule
Asking about feelings
The act of asking an open-ended question shows that you care. “What does that feel like?” or “What has been on your mind as you’re going through this?” Then, listen non-judgmentally to their response without interrupting or offering your opinion.
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Offering support
Not every person feels comforted in the same way. Acknowledge that by asking "How can I support you?"
It expresses a desire to assist without jumping in to problem-solve.
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Willingness to understand
If someone, for instance, has received a new medical diagnosis, you can say, "It sounds like you're worried about the side effects of the treatment. Is that right?"
You can also express kindness by saying, “You’re in such a tough situation.” A facial expression is also a power...
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Reassurance
Statements like "Everything will be fine," or "It could be worse," rarely help.
Instead, try saying things like, "There's help available; we'll find it together," or “I’ve seen you get through extremely challenging times in the past, I believe in you.”
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Negative thoughts
Emotional pain can feel unbearable at times, especially if people lack support. It may sometimes lead to harming thoughts.
If someone you care about is going through a tough time and had suicidal thoughts in the past, ask them directly if they are thinking of hurting themselves. Research sh...
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Related collections
Other curated ideas on this topic:
5 Keys to asking better questions
Asking a lot of questions (lots but not too many) unlocks learning and improves interpersonal bonding.
- TYPE 👉 People interacting with a partner who asks lots of follow-up questions (solicit more information) tend to ...
Insert questions into a conversation at the right time
As you listen, questions will come up in your head. But asking questions can interrupt the other person's thinking and derail a conversation.
- Always attend and reflect before you ask a question.
- When you do ask a question to encourage dialogue, ...
Unsing open-ended questions
Being a good listener is not about getting the facts about what made them upset. It is to be supportive, offer encouragement, and empathize.
Ask open-ended questions to communicate that you're interested in them. Avoid questions beginning with 'Why' and use 'What' or 'How' instead....
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