We all have that friend that we go to for comfort when we are upset. That friend who is always there for us, has the best advice, and makes us feel better. Then, there’s the friend you go to when your other friend is not available. You know? The friend that tries to make you feel better but it’s just really awkward because you’re all upset, probably crying, and the other friend doesn’t know what to do to be there for you. Well, I’m that awkward friend.
It’s just that the crying gets to me and I don’t know what to do. I can do the whole giving advice thing but when tears are involved, it’s a whole new ball game. Luckily, I’ve learned 4 steps to being less awkward when comforting a crying friend.
1. Just let it happen.
Hopefully, the crying will subside after a few minutes and all you have to do is hold them.
2. Don’t pet your friend.
I’m guilty of doing this too. Apparently just patting their shoulder isn’t comforting enough. It’s understandable. Remember, your friend isn’t a dog.
3. Offer to watch a movie and have “girl time.” So when she starts crying again, the movie will possibly drown out the sobs. You will still be “there” for her but if the crying gets overwhelming, you can just focus in on the movie but still look at your friend so it seems like you’re paying attention.
4. Just avoid your friend altogether. There’s no chance of awkwardness, if you don’t get yourself into the situation to begin with. Yes, it’s rude to leave your friend hanging but I’m sure she doesn’t want to be put through the pain of your awkwardness on top of her own pain.
Being the awkward friend isn’t a role that’s chosen. It just happens but for all my friends out there that I have “comforted,” just know that I’ve tried my best to not be so awkward.
