How to Hold Space for Others and Create a Positive Environment

When someone is experiencing a challenging time in life, the most valuable response is often not advice or solutions, but your presence. This is commonly known as 'holding space', the practice of being fully present and non-judgmental when someone shares their problems with you. But how do you 'hold space' without feeling completely drained by the end of the conversation? Let's explore how to offer support to others, without losing yourself in the process.

Setting and maintaining boundaries: One of the most important aspects of holding space is establishing clear personal boundaries. Being emotionally available does not require taking on another person’s feelings as your own. To remain grounded and supportive, you need to recognise your own limits. This may include setting a specific amount of time to listen to someone or saying "no". These can help lessen overwhelm.

Actively listen and validate, instead of ‘fixing’: Another key component of holding space is prioritising understanding over problem-solving. Maintaining eye contact, paraphrasing, reflecting, and clarifying are examples of active listening strategies you may use to show that you understand the speaker and encourage them to go into detail about their feelings and thoughts.

Practice emotional recovery: After holding space for someone, take time to emotionally reset by doing something that you enjoy, to calm and relax your body and mind. It could be as simple as journaling, taking a walk or watching your comfort show. These moments of reflection and rest help you regain perspective and avoid carrying emotional weight after the conversation ends.

By following these steps, you can learn how to foster a positive and safe environment where empathy is present and burnout is avoided. We create better, healthier relationships based on sincere concern and respect for one another when we learn to support others without losing ourselves. 

Written by: Cheyenne

01/2026

References

How to support yourself and Others—Even when you’re struggling. (n.d.). happify.com. https://www.happify.com/hd/how-you-can-support-a-friend-even-when-you-are-struggling/

Maceren, K. (2025, April 5). How to hold space for others (Without Losing Yourself) — ROOTED IN SOUND. ROOTED IN SOUND. https://www.rootedinsound.com/blog/how-to-hold-space-for-others-without-losing-yourself

R K, Suri, & Yadav, S. (2025, April 3). Balancing Care for Others Without Losing Yourself. TalktoAngel. https://www.talktoangel.com/blog/balancing-care-for-others-without-losing-yourself