HSSS | Uplifting Someone Who’s Feeling Down | There are times when you want to go out of your way to brighten someone’s day, but you just don’t know what to say or do. Once you start to feel hemmed in, you start to give others free rein to express their sadness and frustration. But if you knew how to cheer people up, things would likely change for the better. Putting in the effort to make other people happy creates stronger friendships. A connection is immediately formed with the person you help feel uplifted.
Here are some strategies you to try to lift people’s spirits.
First, you need to isolate them from the rest of the crowd. Discover a way to spend some time alone with them. Sit down with the person. People who are going through a difficult moment often find comfort in the simple act of sitting down together to talk about it.
Keep from prodding them too much. Try not to pry for details. Giving individuals adequate time to process their emotions is crucial when trying to lift their spirits. Show them you are on their side. For someone to open up to you, you must first earn their trust. The two of you will find this task less challenging if you have established a level of trust with one another. Otherwise, it’s possible they’ll remain reticent during your encounter with them. If this is the case, you should be ready to let them go and let it be.
Avoid asking the same questions over and over, such as, “How are you feeling?” and “What are you planning to do now?” The answers to such queries will only serve to increase their anxiety. As a matter of fact, you shouldn’t even be curious. Spend time with them for a little while. If they allow you to be with them, there’s a good chance that they’re interested in talking to you as well.
A little touch to show affection may make a big difference. It might be as simple as offering them a shoulder to weep on or a tap on the arm. This can help give courage to the other person.
When they speak, pay attention. Most individuals who feel down just want to vent their emotions and not hear unsolicited advice. Listen to them because you care.
When you do speak, try to maintain your objectivity. Don’t dwell unnecessarily on their hardship. Don’t use anecdotes from your own life as an example. The analogy would be inappropriate and might bring more misery to the person. Instead, try to talk like everything is normal, as much as possible. I think most people would prefer that. It is the gradual return to normalcy after a disaster that provides the most comfort during times of crisis.
You can’t expect to be perfect at cheering people up the first time you try it. But you will definitely have a lot of chances to comfort others all throughout your life.
