This week, we learned about five ways to show up for those we are supporting. In the last episode, you might recall that when we become hopeless and disconnected from our emotional state, the two halves of the brain begin to separate.
This dis-pairing process is called emotional detachment.
When the two sides of our brain are detached, it makes dealing with the constant flow of emotions difficult.
When kids or adults feel seen, it helps the two parts of the brain come back together.
There are tools that can be used to aid the pairing process.
The first pairing tool is showing up.
5 Ways to Show Up
- Show Up Before They Ask You To
- Show Up for What Matters to Them
- Show Up When It’s Inconvenient
- Show Up Often
- Show Up Undistracted
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of this. You do not need to be perfect as a parent, mentor, coach, or friend. Showing up is half of the work. When I am struggling, I need someone to be present with me and acknowledge the pain I am experiencing. I’ve listed five ways to show up, but start with one if you feel overwhelmed.
As you become more familiar with how you can show up, try out another and see what works. Remember, we are not trying to be perfect. If something doesn’t work, try something else. The goal here is to show up for the person you are supporting.
“In moments of despair, the people we love need our ‘outside the door’ kind of presence. That kind of presence creates safety like nothing else can. It may seem small, but when we show up, the brain responds in predictable ways.”
Discussion:
- This week, we learned that we must be predictably available for those we are supporting. There are four critical times parents and teens consistently have together. Mornings, Mealtime, Bedtime, Their Time. What are some ways you can be predictably available for those you are supporting?
- It’s incredibly important that we spend regular time with kids and teens. This is also true for friends and family. How do you plan to create moments or check-in times with those you care about?
- It is especially important that we show up when people are having a tough time. What practical ways can you show up for those in your life?
