Definition
We feel empathy with someone by understanding what they're going through and supporting them.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Empathy helps us share someone’s experience. It helps us predict their needs, offer help, and avoid hurting them. We can also learn from others without having to experience the same conditions.
◈ How It Shows Up
“I feel with you”Soft eyes, leaning closeSlows down, reflects backQuiet presence, steadyAsks “Want company?”
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Name whose feeling it is, mentally
- Listen, summarize what your heard
- “Did I understand you correctly?”
- Ask what kind of support they want
- don't assume they're just like you
- Notice their feelings, not just words
- Validate their experience
Bad Ideas
- “I know exactly how you feel”
- Take over decisions for them
- Ignore your own needs
- Use empathy to manipulate them
- Absorb their emotions until you're completely burned out