I truly want to support people's good lives. I recognize that how people define "good lives" differs from person to person so supporting someone's good life is supporting what they desire, not what you desire. How does this translate to action?
Understand what people want
Understanding what people desire and what matters to people helps you to support people's good living. For example, recently I spoke to a friend who desires adventure. So supporting her good life is supporting her quest for adventure. I spoke to another person who desired greater companionship, so supporting that person's life is making time to be together and to foster other social relationships with and for that person.
Affirm people's desires and quests
Sometimes people see affirming words or actions as patronizing words or actions--I want to explore the difference between affirmation and patronizing more, but in general, I think it's important to affirm people's personal quests, priorities, and values.
Help people achieve their goals
If you can be of help when it comes to people achieving their goals, help them.
Enjoying what you have in common
Joining people to achieve their goals and enjoy their interests.
Celebrate accomplishments and achievements
Acknowledging people's achievements and accomplishments with celebration.
Sensitivity to people's challenges, sensitivities, needs
Knowing people well and being sensitive to their needs is another way to help people live their good lives.
I want to think more about the best ways to support good living for the people I love and live with in the days ahead.
