Communication Tips Wednesday [5]: 
 
Type 2 (Striving to feel Connected)
 
Type 2s focus on creating and maintaining emotional bonds: they scan for needs, feelings, and opportunities to help, driven by a strong pull to feel connected, appreciated, and wanted.
 
When overdone, this can slide into overstepping boundaries, emotional intensity, and doing too much for others while neglecting themselves.
 
Tips for Type 2s:
 
  • Before jumping in, pause and ask: “Do you want help, or do you just want me to listen?” This simple question respects boundaries and still honours your impulse to support.
  • Notice when your emotional reactions escalate: hurt, anger, or guilt when others don’t respond as you hoped. Take a breath and check: “Am I reacting to what they actually said, or to a story about not being appreciated?” Limiting the drama at the moment protects the connection you care so much about.
Tips for communicating with Type 2s:
  • Offer clear, personal appreciation: “I really noticed when you did X; it meant a lot to me.” Twos respond best when gratitude is concrete and relational, not generic.
  • Be honest and kind about boundaries: “I love that you want to help; right now I just need some space / I’ll handle this myself.” This reassures them that the relationship is intact even when their help isn’t needed.

 

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