Empathy

 Empathy is not:

Claiming, "I understand your feelings"

Presuming you know their situation

Instructing them to "be stronger"

Overlooking body language

Neglecting their emotions

Hurrying the conversation

Problem-solving for them

Dominating the dialogue

Downplaying their issues

Focusing on your needs

Resorting to platitudes

Cutting them off

A rapid solution

Criticizing

Sympathy

Apathy

Empathy is:

Calm

Attentive

Inquisitive

Consciousness

Providing solace

Full engagement

Expressing regard

Joining in their quiet

Honoring their limits

Creating a safe space

Mirroring their feelings

Verifying understanding

Recognizing their reality

Affirming their experiences

Posing thoughtful inquiries

Acknowledging their viewpoint

How to apply this in practice?

6 methods to cultivate and demonstrate empathy:

1. Engage in Active Listening

Full attention on the speaker. No interruptions.

2. Echo Emotions

Reflect back, "It seems like you're experiencing..."

3. Pose Open Questions

Encourage them to elaborate a little more.

4. Don't Judge

Maintain an unbiased attitude and heart.

5. Provide Support, Not Just Fixes

Say, "What can I do to help you?"

6. Embrace Patience

Create the space they need to share their thoughts.

Empathy is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.

➟ It deepens trust with others.

➟ It enhances your leadership abilities.

➟ It's essential for professional and personal success.

Make empathy a daily practice.

It will change your life,

and the lives of others.