In today’s psychology class, we discussed how important it is to empower friends, family, and clients going through difficult times.
HONOUR THE PERSON IN FRONT OF YOU
And how even if we are an expert in psychology, nursing, or business – it does not make us the master of someone else’s life.
Together we explored strength-based techniques for uplifting and encouraging others in conversation and in daily life.
Acknowledging we have much left to learn.
LEAN IN AND LISTEN
And the only way to do this is to create an inviting listening space between ourselves and the people we meet to be themselves.
Next Steps
Helpful tips for enhancing conversations with clients and family can be found in the June article in The Drive Magazine (click here) and in the psychology video below —
Empowering Someone with a Brain Injury
The Story Behind the Story
This post and article were inspired by my sister Noelle.
“When my sister was 19, she had a brain aneurysm. Every day since she has struggled to maintain her independence and financial security.
Despite her trauma, Noelle continues to thrive in unexpected and beautiful ways. She never gives up, no matter what comes her way. Over the years, I have discovered the difference it makes when I support Noelle from her perspective, rather than dictating what she needs.”
Excerpt from The Drive Magazine | Issue 122, p. 49
Thriving Under Pressure 
This is really beautiful, Andrea. Funny, I was just listening to a podcast on the importance of heart-centered listening, as well as seeing the loving essence (i.e., seeing that each person has all the resources they need to effectively deal with their circumstances––and we are all love.)
I’m glad that there was an opportunity to comment here. I’ve been reading your posts, and I haven’t noticed a “like” button or a way to reply to the post.
You are doing SUCH good work! Blessings to you and your students, Andrea.
Debbie
Wonderful to hear from you Debbie! I always love how my words intertwine with your world. Miles away. Hearts always close.
You are right – I haven’t added the comments to my blog posts in a few months. I found myself lacking in creative energy, and realized that I needed to take a little step back.
Today I was ready to rejoin the beautiful conversation of my WordPress family, and I couldn’t imagine a better way to do it then with a post on conversations!
Thank you for taking the time to read and reflect on my ideas. You loving kindness will always be cherished.
xoxo
I agree with you about the key importance of listening well! However, it can be a pretty difficult thing to consistently practice. Every thing from a lack of time to a lack of energy conspires against it. And yet — it is immensely rewarding in the right circumstances!
So true about how rewarding listening can truly be. For as I said in my video “we learn nothing by talking” – only be leaning in and listening do we learn. Wishing you a night of peace, & reflection. Hopefully in nature. For the sounds of birds this time of year are especially magical.
Funny you should mention the birds, my friend! I have been making a point of sitting out on my patio to listen to them just before dawn each day — now that the weather is warm enough. They seem to me to sing the sweetest at that hour. And thank you so much for the well wishes! I hope you a beautiful and blessed evening.
Thanks Paul! I love the picture you’ve painted for me. Nature connects us all!
What a beautiful article Andrea. I love the Real Life examples you have included.
Thank you Brigid! Your means so much. When I opened my WordPress account this morning, seeing your words (daisies) brought the biggest smile! Wishing you a radiant weekend in your Irish garden. Andrea 🌼🍀
Thank you Andrea. You are kind. x
Really well done, Andrea. I loved especially your intentional connection with your sister and how you choose to understand her better. Not just in listening but in paying attention to what is hard for her. It’s a lot easier to be selfish and demand what I want rather than listening and learning. Thanks for this insightful post.
Thanks so much Gayle! For your feedback and for taking the time to read the article. I value you and your time. Both shared with me today. Have a wonderful day! You made mine. :)))
Beautiful post! 😁🙌
A good friend lifts us up! Lovin’ this one 😀
So true Christy! And that includes blogging friends like you! 💖☀️ #GoodVibesTribe
love it!
Thank you for watching & reading!
This made me think really hard about how I think about my life. About my self mantra and how it unfortunately negatively effects my mind. Thank you!
The good news (and bad news) Maggie is that negativity plus doom & gloom is how all of us think! Psychology professors and psychologists included.
Why?
The negativity bias is built into our brain as a protective factor against predators from hundreds of thousands of years ago.
Solution?
Doing exercises like the one suggested in this post and the accompanying video.
Positive reframing is a habit. And we all get better at it with time and hard work.
I even did a TEDx Talk on Thriving Under Pressure to go with this blog.
I believe in you Maggie.
Good thoughts. Bad thoughts.
Everything passes. ☔️☀️🍃
Oh thank you for the encouragement, very helpful!
Anytime Maggie! It’s my pleasure.
That’s why I started this blog.
To encourage & uplift – every chance I get.
It’s so appreciated! 😁