The capacity to understand what other people are feeling on an emotional level is known as empathy. Being empathetic is essential if you want to develop strong relationships at home and at work. Without empathy, people are often seen as being self-centered or aloof. As a result, they may have trouble making friends or developing relationships with others. A lack of empathy is a common trait shared by sociopaths. People who are empathetic, on the other hand, are usually viewed as being kind and compassionate.
Studies have found that empathy is not only something people are born with but also something that they learn. Speak to the
New York Meditation Center for advice on how you can take steps to
Here are eight steps you can take today to become more empathetic:
1. Take on challenges.
Try pushing yourself beyond your perceived limits. Taking on tasks that you find extremely challenging like mastering a new language or learning how to play an instrument can leave you feeling humble. It is a lot easier to feel empathy for others when you know what it feels like to face struggles of your own.
2. Explore new places.
Traveling is a great way to expose yourself to different cultures and unique places. The more well-travelled you become, the easier it will be for you to appreciate other people.
3. Find out how you are doing.
If you aren’t sure where you fall on the empathy scale, talk to people that you know about your relationships. Ask your friends and family members whether or not they see you as a good listener. Look for areas for improvement.
4. Get out of your head and listen with your heart.
When choosing reading material, look for books that focus on relationships or other types of emotional content. This technique has been proven effective at boosting the empathy levels of new doctors.
5. Put yourself in someone else’s position.
Sit down with other people to find out what they are going through. This is particularly effective if you have both had the same experiences. Look for ways that their perception differs from your own.
6. Rethink your preconceived notions.
Biases can keep you from really hearing what others are saying or empathizing with their situations. Biases usually are based on factors that you can see when you look at other people like their gender or their age. Even if you think you don’t have any biases, you probably do.
7. Become curious about the people around you.
Everyone that you come in contact with has something that they can teach you. Maintain a sense of curiosity, asking the people around you thoughtful questions. The answers to these questions can help you understand them better.
8. Choose the right questions.
Every time you talk to a new co-worker or client, have some well-thought-out questions in mind that you can use to encourage deeper conversations.
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