Everyone wants to have a friend who is there for them. However, in order to have a friend, you'll need to be a friend. And there are some specific ways to best be there for others in your life. One of the biggest keys is to simply listen, providing an ear and emotional support as needed. Conversely, stay away from piling on the advice – people who are in tough times often aren't ready to absorb a high level of guidance.
Key Takeaways:
- Everyone needs a good friend, and in order to have one, you'll need to be one.
- When a friend is in need, just listen – lending them an ear, while perhaps seeming passive, does wonders.
- On the other hand, don't be overly active with advice-giving: it can simply overwhelm the individual.
“Given how personal the problems are that confiders bring to their friends are, it’s clear that everyone could use help navigating these complex areas when providing support.”