is it really "all about me?"

 
I just heard on the news that a study has come out about how we feel about ourselves. It said that unless we are talking about ourselves, 75% of us are not happy. Really? REALLY? Seventy five percent?????!!!
So unless it's "all about me," we are not happy. Hmmmm.....Now, I don't know about you, but unless I am asked a question about me, I always tend to move the conversation to the other person. This, to me, is polite. Now it becomes, "all about you," and I will listen. But say you're at the water cooler and Joe the Pastry Guy (the one for whom that first dozen donuts is exclusively his!) comes up and just starts yapping about his weekend. You know, he brags about his boat, his big house and the lawn service who forgot to mow his lawn on Saturday, the Lincoln Navigator he "needs" to move the boat from its slip 50 miles away to put it in the water...you get the idea. It's just bragging! And just when you think you can steer the conversation back to you, he's gone in a flash to the next person/victim to bend their ear.
When was the last time you asked someone about themselves and then...really LISTENED. I do NOT mean about the weather or the prices of gas going up and down like a yo-yo, either, but look into their eyes. Is there pain? Are there issues that perhaps needs to be discussed, but the fear of rejection won't allow that? Maybe a close friend of theirs died, or a relative is ill, or they have lost their job. Perhaps they are caretaking a sick parent or have a child with addiction issues. All that is needed is a hug and an "I am here if you need me." Then if they want to talk, just LISTEN! Do NOT interject with thoughts or advice and most certainly don't tune them out to think of what you will interrupt them with next. Just allow them their time to converse. Believe me, when your body posture and look indicates you are a willing recipient, they will confide.
Don't get me wrong, it's okay to talk about yourself, but when it intrudes on others to the point of one-upmanship, would YOU really want to be a part of that? Discretion is the key.
Take a look around you. Who is in need of a shoulder to lean on? Even if it's at the store...or as you're driving in your car; see that person next to you? The one who looks as though they need a reprieve from life? Give them a thoughtful smile and nod. Don't be surprised if they do the same. Both of you will feel so much better. It takes only a minute to "piss someone off." Why not take that minute to make their day a happy one instead?