When someone tosses you their problem, you’re allowed to toss it back politely: “What do you think you’ll do?”

Taking on someone’s problem the moment it is described trains both of you. They stop developing their own judgment, and you end up carrying decisions that were never yours, which serves nobody well past the first few times. Being helpful and being responsible are two different things.

When a problem lands in your lap, ask what they are thinking of doing before you offer anything. Stay in the conversation and leave the decision where it started. Most people need someone to think out loud with more than they need your solution.