Empathetic people have the ability to sit in someone else's place. They see things from the other person's point of view.
Empathy is a useful social tool for the environment in which we live. With empathy we can connect deeper with the people around us.
Although this ability is unique to humans, we do not all develop it equally. There are some who of course are very empathetic. They do not have to work hard on it.
Others need to work more to use this to connect with others.
1. They really listen to what other people say
Empathetic people listen to each word in a conversation. But the difference between them and other people is that they give them their full attention.
An empathetic person does not listen just to say something back. They are really interested in what you want to say to them.
While this may not seem particularly important, be aware while listening to a gift you give to the person you are talking to.
It is also a difficult ability to use.
Most of us do not usually give our full attention to others. The normal thing to do is listen so you can say something back or debate a problem. The problem with this is that the relationships we create with others are not so strong.
On the other hand, empathetic people respond to what you say with your whole body.
It's easy to realize that they keep an eye on what you say. They show it with their movements, energy and posture.
2. Empathetic people appreciate curiosity
As children put the other idea in us that asking too many questions is a bad thing. But the reality of the situation is a bit different.
There are certain questions that should not be asked before you reach a degree of self-esteem. That said, does not mean you should not ask for anything.
Empathetic people do not believe in this worldview. They are torn by the curiosity they feel for customs, experiences and any knowledge the other person has.
So, next time you talk to someone, ask them about their interests, dreams and goals. This exercise will help you develop empathy. It will also make you see reality from someone else's point of view.
3. They make known their opinions
Empathetic people do not blindly hold the same opinions throughout their lives.
Instead, they listen and ask.
They understand that there is not only an answer to everything and understand that everyone has their own motives. They are not interested in being right all the time. Instead, they prefer to discuss and exchange ideas.
At the end of this process, it is not strange for them to change their opinions or to adopt somebody else's. But understand us right, they do not make you feel like them.
If they change their minds, it's because they really believe something.
To be more empathetic, talk to people who think differently than you in certain areas. Listen to their ideas and get to know your own.
The most important thing about this process is that you are not trying to convince anyone that your ideas are correct. Just listen.
4. They are aware of what they say
The words you use are as important as listening.
Empathetic people understand that words are a weapon that can save or harm people. Because of this, they are very careful about what they say.
When they speak, they do it without judging, requiring or pointing to things. This even means that they will ask if they have to give some advice before they share them.
Sometimes we do not know how to tell the difference between helping and claiming. Because of this, when you talk to someone who goes through a hard time, it's important to use sentences like "I can not imagine it" or "How can I help you?"
In this way, the other person will feel you really understand them and you do not judge them.
5. They understand that everyone must be treated differently
Empathetic people understand that the words "treat others as you want to be treated themselves" is not a rule. This is because not everyone wants to be treated alike.
Being empathetic means getting rid of your arrogance and pride. It also means accepting that there is more than one way of right.
Sometimes we let go of someone because of a single attitude or experience. We do not think about the story behind their actions. Perhaps this was an insignificant experience for you, but for them it could be a great emotional burden.
It does not mean that empathetic people do not make decisions or say what they want. On the contrary, they explain what they feel or want, but they always have their listening party in mind.
