"Let me know if I can help..."

Do you know someone going through a hard time?

Stop saying, “Just let me know if you need anything.”

It sounds good in the moment, but it puts a all the pressure onto the person who is going through a disruptive life event.

They probably don’t entirely know what they need.

And, what if they ask you something that you don’t want to give? (“Could you take out my dog on Tuesday?” But you hate dogs…)

And if forces THEM to follow-up with YOU.

Instead, take a moment to do an empathy self-inventory. How are you equipped to give support? Maybe you like buying gift certificates or you can take a task off their to-to list at work.

Next time, offer something specific. “I’m so sorry your husband is having surgery. Can I send you a gift certificate for next week?”

What are some of the specific ways that you can express care?