Like its negative counterpart,
passive supportiveness
is when you tell others
that the things they do or feel
are “normal” or “acceptable,”
when you’re actually just glad
they’re not you.
Passsive supportiveness
does NOT help,
quite the contrary,
because it sets up expectations
that may very well be dashed,
making the suffering even worse.
Oak Bluffs,
7/31
Passive supportiveness may seem like a comforting gesture, but in reality, it can create false expectations and hinder true growth and healing. When we tell others that their actions or feelings are “normal” or “acceptable” without truly understanding or empathizing with their experiences, we may unintentionally invalidate their emotions and struggles.
Genuine support requires active listening, empathy, and a willingness to understand the other person’s perspective deeply. It involves being present for them, offering a shoulder to lean on, and showing them that they are not alone in their journey.
While passive supportiveness might come from a place of wanting to avoid conflict or discomfort, it can leave the person feeling unseen and unheard. It’s important to remember that true support involves being honest, compassionate, and open-hearted, even when it means facing difficult emotions and conversations.
Let us strive to be actively supportive, offering our genuine presence and understanding to those around us, without judgments or expectations. By doing so, we create a space where people can truly feel heard, valued, and loved as they navigate their unique paths in life.
With heartfelt support and understanding. Not really.
Space Monkey 🙈🙊🙉