Learning to Give a Pep Talk (打气)
Everyone wants to be the type of person who gives the critical talk that turns around a friend's outlook. However, giving a good pep talk isn't easy. . You need to not only listen and understand, but also stress the other person's strengths. You also need to know when to stop talking.
"A lot of people think they are giving a pep talk, but they are just saying what they would want to hear," says Stacy Kaiser, a psychotherapist (心理治疗师) in Los Angeles.
Instead of instantly telling someone what to do, ask him what actions he has thought about taking and why he thinks they will be beneficial. "Don't jump right in and insist 'You'll be fine'," says Kaiser. . Repeat the person's concerns out loud, so he feels heard. Then, show your friend that you believe in him and that he has what it takes to get through this hard time. Stress his strengths.
. You can't guarantee success, but you can remind the person that he has been through a tough time before and has gotten through it.
At last, Kaiser says you must know when to stop. ". Don't argue if the person disagrees with what you are saying. Instead, tell him 'I am sorry you are having such a hard time, ' and then back down. "
Kaiser says he has learned to give good pep talks by giving bad ones. He lost a number of loved ones during a short period. "Timing is everything. " There is a time to give a pep talk, and there is a time to just listen. .
A. Let your friend have his moment
B. Give your pep talk and then shut up
C. Arguing with your friend makes no sense
D. Show your friend that you understand why he is sad
E. He isn't interested in what his best friends really need
F. It requires an understanding of what your audience needs
G. It is also important to remember that pep talks are about hope
