Why Empathy?

Empathy is the gateway to being able to have meaningful relationships. Simply put, Empathy is the skill of understanding what another person is thinking, feeling and then showing them some compassion. More than likely, the people you feel "most get you" have a great deal of skill in Empathy. If you want to have more meaningful relationships, this is step one. Practice Empathy and you will find people wanting to spend time with you...especially your partner. 

Goals and Mindset of Empathy

Since Empathy is a skill, you can set a goal and work on your mindset of showing Empathy to everyone, especially your partner. Do not expect perfection, just keep making progress. We are all dismissive and rude to our partner sometimes. Just understanding the importance of Empathy and making an effort, makes a difference.  When heading home and knowing you are about to see a loved one, you may be tempted to start telling them all about your day. You may really want to share and be understood. Give them the gift of Empathy- ask questions, listen and express compassion and care for them. This will make both of you feel close and connected. 

The Language of Empathy

Sometimes, when trying to understand another person or even ourselves, we say stupid things. We might ask "why are you such an idiot?" This does not get great results. It is important to think about how you want your partner to feel after every interaction they have with you. Do you want them to feel dismissed, belittled, or disrespected? Of course, not. We hope you want them to feel heard, respected and some compassion. You want them to feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings. If they don't feel safe with you, they will share with someone and that can lead to a whole host of other issues. 

Prioritizing Empathy and Your Partner

Making Empathy a priority is the same as making those you care about a priority. Empathy means that we slow down enough to take the time to understand another person and create space for real connection. If you get nothing else from this course, except improving your Empathy- you'd see amazing results. It may seem that some of us are more naturally Empathetic. However, Empathy is a learned skill. No matter how strange it feels at first to shut your mouth, listen and ask questions with an intent on understanding another person, with practice, you can learn Empathy. 

EMPATHY CHALLENGE

Instructions: Print the attached pdf file. Read and ponder the statement and questions each morning on your own and with your partner in the evening. This is the best way to improve at each concept and take your relationship to the Next Level. 

Empathy is making the time and effort to understand what another person is thinking and feeling. Then, making an effort to show compassion.