Offer support while keeping limits · D5.5

Be clear about your availability to listen

You want to be present for someone while being honest about your own capacity.

Everyday practice

Try these steps

1. Check whether you have the time and attention for the conversation now.
2. State your availability honestly and ask whether it fits what they need.
3. If you listen, give attention to the conversation; if you cannot, offer another time only if you can realistically keep it.

An example

I want to hear this, but I am about to leave. Would a call tomorrow work, or do you need someone available now?

Reflect

Did the arrangement respect both people’s needs?

Next time

Availability can vary; openness is not an obligation to be accessible at all times.