Original practical exercise
Check the moment
Ask whether they want to talk and whether now is a useful time.
Ask what helps
Offer listening, practical help, or ideas as possibilities. Let them choose something else.
Reflect carefully
Say what you heard and ask whether you understood. Avoid replacing their story with yours.
Agree one action
If they want help, offer something specific you can keep. If they want quiet, respect it.
Take a moment
What did you learn when you delayed your advice?
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