Sometimes all that is required is to just be present. Present in thought, attention and focus.

You don’t have to comment, you don’t have to give advice, you don’t have to share an opinion or provide feedback. You just sit and listen and provide the opportunity for someone to simply share what they are thinking or feeling.

It is simply about validating the feelings of someone else.

A simple smile, a nod of the head, the most basic gestures can make all the difference in the world.

Gestures that show that they have your undivided attention and that you are there for them. That they and their situation is important to you. That their world at that point in time is your world.

Help comes in many different guises but none more important than presence. The preparedness to just be there.

In a world where more often than not more is seen as better, the approach of just being there and doing nothing more is quite a contrast. However, in the situation we are discussing less is more.

Restraint becomes critical. As this situation is different than most. It is not a two-way conversation, in fact, it is exactly the opposite and in most cases we are not predisposed to just sit and listen. But right now that is the one and only approach you should take.
Your presence if and when done correctly will help create significant relevance, clarity and confidence. In some cases, this may take some time, but by you being present it will allow the other party to work through and communicate their thoughts and feelings. Each time allowing them to better understand both the situation and themselves.

Over time clarity will become increasingly evident for them, confidence will grow and the way forward will evolve.

Your role will be significant, yet understated.

But most of all your presence and approach will allow someone else to make sure…

The Journey Continues!