If someone raises their eyebrows while talking about their surprise, for example, I might do the same. While people naturally mimic each other’s behaviours some of the time, you might be less likely to do it when you feel disinterested or judgmental. Research suggests that of all the non-verbal behaviours you might use in a conversation, these are among the most effective at signalling attention, connection and safety. You don’t need to worry about making your non-verbals super obvious; just a gentle self-reminder to use them is sufficient.
Can you recognize certain past experience that you had with some of the aspects of the story that they are sharing with you? It is common that we’ve had a similar experience that we can share so that the other person feels more connected and understood by us. Acknowledge Their Feelings – Use validating statements to reflect what you hear and affirm their emotional experience. Rachel’s ability to validate and set emotional boundaries—through differentiation—allows her to be present in a meaningful way.
It is important to establish an unfollow etiquette that prioritizes mental health and wellbeing. This involves being intentional about the type of content consumed on social media, as well as the accounts followed. By identifying triggers that lead to negative emotions or thoughts, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their social media intake and prioritize their mental health. A balanced approach to using digital platforms is crucial for individuals seeking to maintain their emotional well-being while engaging in online activities. Building a positive relationship with social media involves adopting mindful browsing habits and setting clear intentions before logging onto any platform.
By practicing mindfulness and intentionality when using these platforms, individuals are better equipped to foster positive interactions online. Validation is a compassionate invitation to connect across our differences. It is the act of recognizing and affirming the reality of someone’s feelings, thoughts, or experience even if you don’t agree with them. As world-renowned validation expert Dr. Marsha Linehan puts it, validation is “finding the kernel of truth Youmetalks people carousel in another person’s perspective or situation” (Linehan, 1997).
The empathy skills that come later are typically the most powerful and usually the most difficult to execute. They communicate mindfulness, understanding and empathy in one fell swoop. Importantly, validation attends only to the valid parts of a person’s experience.
Clubul Sportiv Bucuria Dansului | profesor Nicu Bucur