A note from Sean
When someone close to me is struggling, I would not push them to look at it, and I would not do nothing either. I would share one or two simple practices that have helped me, say that it is not always easy for me either, and keep it at zero pressure.
Try this today. Think of one person who is worried about something today. Before you fix anything, close your eyes, take three slow breaths, and remember that they want to feel okay, just like you. Then pick one thing from the worksheet’s list, such as asking one more question or sending a few words of care.
Keep going: Mindfulness For Difficult Conversations and Listening Meditation.
This suits anyone supporting a worried friend, partner, parent, or client. If their worry is heavy, keep a healthy distance, as the worksheet says, so you do not take it on. If it touches your own grief or old pain, go gently. Stop when you need to.
