It’s important to verbally bring it back to them after sharing your similar experience. Something like, “bla bla bla so yea losing my father was devastating so I can imagine the pain your going through right now.” Then pause and let them talk again.
I think half the problem is that neurotypicals don’t connect dots the way neurospicy folks do. It goes without saying to neurodivergent folk that the reason/purpose/meaning behind the personal story is to create a foundation for empathy and connection.
deleted by creator
It’s important to verbally bring it back to them after sharing your similar experience. Something like, “bla bla bla so yea losing my father was devastating so I can imagine the pain your going through right now.” Then pause and let them talk again.
I think half the problem is that neurotypicals don’t connect dots the way neurospicy folks do. It goes without saying to neurodivergent folk that the reason/purpose/meaning behind the personal story is to create a foundation for empathy and connection.
To take this further, a relateability sandwich really helps.
Start with “I really relate to that because I had a similar experience.” or similar
end with “So I really sympathize with you, and I learned/still feel [insert summary of relevance to their situation]”