Empathy is one of the most important life skills. Many people assume that the ability to understand and share in others’ emotions is an inherent trait, but in reality, it is, at least in part, a learned trait. With the exception of those unusual few genuine sociopaths who are completely lacking in empathy, almost everyone can learn to build better relationships by becoming a warmer, more caring person. Find out how to get started below.
1. Learn How to Walk in Others’ Shoes
Almost everyone has been told not to judge another person until walking a thousand miles in their shoes, and this is a great way to get a better understanding of other people’s experiences. It doesn’t require those who want to improve themselves to drop what they are doing and start entirely new lives. Just talk to people about their problems, concerns, and challenges, or read books by diverse authors like those found at AlkeyTAB to get a better idea of how other people experience the world.
2. Learn New Skills
Learning new skills isn’t just about improving competence levels. It requires people to step outside their comfort zones and do things that are hard for them, at least at first. This can be a humbling experience, and humility is known to enable increased empathy.
3. Travel to New Places
Traveling to new places helps to foster empathy by increasing cultural competence. There are almost as many ways to live in this world as there are people populating it, and doing something or interpreting a situation differently doesn’t mean one person is right and the other one is wrong.
4. Ask the Right Questions
When conversing with others, try to ask thoughtful, provocative questions, then really listen to the answers. Like empathy, active listening is a skill that can be honed.
5. Examine Biases
Everyone alive has hidden biases that interfere with his or her ability to empathize with others. Some are centered around physical appearance, while others relate to personal experiences or ideologies. Try to identify and examine biases instead of acting on them unthinkingly.
6. Cultivate Curiosity
Everyone has something to learn and something to teach. Cultivate a sense of curiosity about other people and take a genuine interest in their lives and perspectives. It’s a great way to build empathy and foster valuable relationships.
7. Ask for Feedback
Given that empathy is all about understanding others, there should be no need for anyone to undertake the personal journey toward improving these skills alone. Ask for feedback from friends or family members about skills like active listening and open communication and ask trusted advisors to check in periodically about progress. It’s a good way to get more objective opinions and advice.
8. Explore the Heart
Many young doctors are encouraged to read literature that focuses on exploring personal relationships, and with good reason. It helps them better understand their patients’ responses and perspectives. Everyone can benefit from this practice, not just doctors, so those who typically read books as a means of advancing intellectual understanding might want to branch out.
The Bottom Line
Some people are naturally more empathetic than others, but that doesn’t mean everyone can’t improve his or her personal relationships. Try the tips above to improve active listening, gain perspective, and learn how to make a good impression as a warm, caring person.