Reflect What You Saw

Mirrors only work if they're accurate. 'You seemed frustrated in the meeting' is a reflection. 'You are a difficult person' is a projection. The first describes something the other can verify against memory; the second asks them to accept a verdict about their character.

Let them process and respond without filling the silence. More often than not, they'll name the issue themselves — which creates ownership your diagnosis never could. Patience is the underrated mirror skill.