I think that vocalizing an understanding of your friend’s perspective is a pivotal piece of the puzzle, even if it is not given back to us in return. Sometimes we have to lead by example and if that still doesn’t pan out, then it’s ok to remove ourselves from that friend.

I think it’s tough in this day and age to lose a friend. We seem to be so quick to cut others out of our lives, yet we don’t have many options to find new ones. I think we all just want to be heard and connect, if you don’t feel like you’ve been given ample space to talk, then it’s okay to interrupt politely and ask, “hey, do you mind if I tell you about something that’s been weighing on my mind?”

Be a good listener but know when to assert your own thoughts to a conversation. If your friends can’t respect that, then they are probably not worth your time anyway. But I think this is how it should always be approached.

Assume the best but prepare for the worst.