Cultivating Empathy

You know when you’re having a rough day, and someone just gets it? That feeling of being seen and understood is empathy in action.

When we show people empathy, we cultivate an openness and connection that helps everyone feel more supported and less alone. Empathy can be a true game-changer when it comes to caring for our wellbeing and relationships. Luckily, you can improve your empathy skills with a little mindfulness, willingness, and commitment.

The word empathy is often used interchangeably with the words sympathy and compassion, but they aren’t the same thing.

Empathy is about feeling with people, not just feeling for them. When you're empathetic, you're not just guessing how someone feels. You're right there with them, feeling it too.

Existing in the world can come with a bit of sensory overload. A lot is going on out there, and it’s no wonder that we become preoccupied with our mind’s chatter. So often, our thoughts and emotions take over, leaving little space for those around us to feel seen or heard. And when we do migrate toward social interaction, we tend to stick to our birds of a feather.

All these behaviors can lead to an empathy deficit — where we’re only exposed to those similar to us — and being able to show compassion for people and perspectives that are different than ours becomes difficult, if not impossible. It can all seem a bit frustrating and disheartening. But asking yourself how you can be more empathetic and venturing into understanding those around you is worth the work. 

Learning to listen to those around you without passing judgment can strengthen not only your familial relationships and partnerships, but also your friendships.

Empathy is one of the most deeply appreciated human qualities. Those who can give it, create stronger bonds with their social circles. These stronger bonds bring about more joy within one’s life.

Empathy is at the heart of emotional intelligence, or our ability to be aware of our emotions and handle interpersonal relationships. Being able to empathize with those around us gives us a better grasp of navigating interpersonal relationships.

Being able to navigate human relationships and situations successfully can make office life much easier to take on. If you can read and understand the emotions, needs, and thoughts of your reports and co-workers, you are much more likely to communicate and collaborate effectively.

Empathy can help you understand what someone is going through. It can also lead you to action and offer comfort to others.

Most people grow up with the ability to develop empathy, but the more you practice it, the more empathetic you can become.

Learning more about other perspectives, connecting with diverse groups of people, and trying to give others the benefit of the doubt can help you be more empathetic.

Lastly, talking to a counselor or therapist may be helpful if you struggle with empathy. They can help you better understand your empathetic responses and how to connect with others.