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kagamiseki t1_iu0j7oi wrote

Hi Dr. Lee, thanks for your time. I tend to have an optimistic outlook, but I feel lost when trying to help somebody who has a pessimistic outlook.

Do you have any advice on how to speak with and/or guide somebody that we care about?

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BUExperts OP t1_iu0qy48 wrote

Thank you for this question. It is wonderful that you are trying to help others. Often times, especially when people are in distress, they may not be ready to change their way of thinking. When we offer a different way to think, the implicit message is that their way of thinking is not good (even if you don't mean it and are well-intentioned) - that may come off as judgmental and create additional distress for the recipient. Know that it is already a gift by being present, available, and expressing that you understand their difficulties.

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