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How to be a Supportive Husband, Wife, Friend, or Parent

Supportive Do's and Don'ts

Don't criticize the situation

Don't use resistive body language

Do be a good listener

Do offer a compliment

Don't suggest obstacles

Don't decide what they "should" do

Do realize we all get to be our own person

Do always take your friend's side

Don't let your kid always have their way

Do let them know you care

Do take interest in their activities

Relationship Secrets

The Supportive Relationship

So many times I’ve been in a situation that called for me to be a supportive friend, mom, daughter or wife.  Being supportive didn’t come natural at first. My instinct was to critique the situation, or even attempt to fix the problem. 

But I learned that unless someone comes to you with a question such as, “What should I do?” or “What do you think about this,” your supportive role does not call for you to judge, criticize, or fix the problem.  It took some time for me to realize this.  But one day, the lightbulb came on and I realized that what really helps is to be a good listener and to have a caring heart.

If and when you are asked for input, resist the urge to tell them the brutal truth of what you really think.  After all, this isn’t about you! 

OK, now that you get the idea of the wrong thing to do in your supportive role as a parent, spouse, or friend, here is a better way to support your loved ones.

• Supporting Your Partner

• Supporting Your Friend

• Supporting Your Child

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