14/10/2026
“Can you tell me what you think I should do?”
It's a pretty normal question.
And sometimes we really do want an answer.
But there are other times when we're talking through something and what we actually need is for someone to listen.
Or we're asking for reassurance when we're still trying to work out what we think ourselves.
I've noticed this can be easy to miss, both in ourselves and in other people.
👉 Someone asks for advice, so we give it.
👉 Someone wants an answer, so we try to find one.
And sometimes they're left feeling no better than when they started.
🖐️ A little pause can help.
“Do you want my thoughts, or do you just need me to listen?”
It's a simple question, but it can change the conversation.
And it works the other way too.
Next time you find yourself asking someone for something, it might be worth stopping for a second and asking yourself what you're actually hoping they'll give you.
🩷 Sometimes we know.
❤️ Sometimes we don't.
That's part of getting to know ourselves a little better. ☺️💙
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