When Help Isn't Helpful

Ever sit in the driveway for a minute before going inside?Sometimes we’re not avoiding home. We’re trying to figure out what version of ourselves is about to walk through the door.This week, we’re talking about what we carry home, what we hand to the people we love, and why “How ...  Show more

An invitation to stop filling missing information with a frightening story and allow the blank to remain open. 

Sometimes, helping can hurt. When people are struggling, our impulse is to try to pull them back on their feet, when what they really need is for someone to sit beside them and ask, "What do you need? What can I do?" Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's websit ...  Show more

When someone is struggling, it's hard to know how to be helpful. Whether it's a struggling partner, co-worker or friend, this episode will help you show up in a more supportive, empowering way using a couple of simple steps. Be a good listener, without over supporting or taking o ...  Show more

We often rush to offer solutions when a loved one expresses emotional distress, not because we don't care, but because it's uncomfortable to witness pain—both theirs and our own. While advice and plans may seem helpful, skipping over empathy and validation can make others feel di ...  Show more