Mutuality win-wins mean even if I am embroiled in my own crisis when my friend needs me, I can still provide some empathy while also getting the space I need to recover. That might look like “That’s so awful. I’m so sorry. I’m glad you reached out. I can chat later tomorrow.” Consider how that rings differently than “I’m drained. I will respond when I have energy again.” Both phrases achieve the same thing: a break to chat later, but one isn’t just focused on ourselves. One affirms that our friend’s needs are still a priority.
