Beyond "How Are You?": Meaningful Ways to Check In on Someone's Well-being

When we want to show care and concern for someone, we often default to the question, "How are you?" While this question can be a genuine expression of interest, it has become so commonplace that its impact may diminish over time. If you're looking to connect with someone on a deeper level or explore alternative ways to check in on their well-being, this blog post offers practical suggestions to foster meaningful conversations and show your support.

It's sometimes hard to know what to say or do when you know and see that someone is going through a tough time. There are other ways and phrases you can use to check in on someone.

Please, only do the following things if you are mentally and physically ready to. Crossing your own boundaries to help someone else can be harmful for all parties.

1. Show Specific Interest: Instead of asking a generic question, demonstrate that you remember and care about specific aspects of the person's life. Ask about a project they were working on, a hobby they enjoy, or a recent event they attended. By showing interest in their individual experiences, you're signaling that you value them as a person.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Engage in open-ended questions that encourage the person to share more about their thoughts, feelings, or experiences. Instead of asking about their day, inquire about what has been the most memorable part of their week, what they're currently passionate about, or what challenges they may be facing. This approach invites more meaningful conversations and allows the person to share on their terms.

3. Use Active Listening: When someone is opening up, focus on actively listening and being fully present. Demonstrate your attentiveness through body language, maintaining eye contact, and nodding to show understanding. Reflect back on what they've shared, paraphrase, and ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into their thoughts or feelings. By being a compassionate listener, you create a safe space for them to express themselves.

4. Offer Empathy and Validation: Rather than trying to solve their problems or offer immediate advice, practice empathy and validation. Acknowledge their emotions, experiences, and challenges. Let them know that their feelings are valid and understandable. Sometimes, all someone needs is to feel heard and understood.

5. Be Available for Support: Express your willingness to support them in tangible ways. Offer your assistance, whether it's helping them with a task, providing resources, or simply being there to lend an ear. Let them know they can reach out to you whenever they need someone to talk to or lean on for support.

Checking in on someone's well-being goes beyond a simple "How are you?" question. By showing specific interest, asking open-ended questions, actively listening, offering empathy, and being available for support, you can foster deeper connections and provide genuine care for those around you. Remember, a little effort and intentionality can make a big difference in someone's life. So, let's embrace these alternative approaches to checking in and cultivate more meaningful connections with those we care about.

With love,

Aude.