Be That Person

Lyndsay Friedman shared this on LinkedIn, and it grabbed my attention with its honesty and boldness.

I thought I’d share, so that you might share with others…

In a warm, loving, and inviting way 😉

“Call If You Need Anything” Is the Most Useless Thing You Can Say

Every caregiver has heard it:
“Let me know if you need anything.”
“Call if I can help.”
“I’m here for you.”

These offers come from good people with good intentions.

And they’re almost completely useless.

Here’s why:
Caregivers are drowning. They don’t have the mental bandwidth to figure out what you could do, whether you really mean it, and how to coordinate your help.
The burden of asking is real. Most caregivers would rather struggle alone than feel like they’re imposing.
Vague offers feel empty. When someone says “anything,” it often means nothing.

If you actually want to help a caregiver, stop offering and start doing:
Instead of “let me know if you need anything,” say: “I’m bringing dinner Tuesday. What time works?”
Instead of “call if you need help,” say: “I’m free Saturday afternoon. I’d like to sit with your mom so you can leave. Yes or no?”
Instead of “I’m here for you,” show up. With food. With your presence. With a specific plan.

Don’t make them ask. Don’t make them coordinate. Don’t make them manage your help.
Just help.

The caregivers in your life are exhausted. They need people who show up without being asked.
Be that person.

Share this with someone who wants to help a caregiver but doesn’t know how 💜

What’s the most helpful thing someone has done for you without being asked?

When I read this, I had a variety of reactions…

1. YES, THIS

2. I need to share this with…everyone

3. I can’t believe I’ve never been able to say this out loud

4. YES, THIS!

Take care of yourself,

Bob.