Ever since I was little, I’ve always been an empathetic person. My mom always shares the story of when I played soccer around four years old, and I would go hug the goalie from the other team every time we scored because I didn’t want him/ her to be sad. I still believe having the ability to be empathetic is such an important characteristic for someone to have.
Having empathy towards another individual can really show someone how much you care. When someone tells you about their problems, it means a lot to them to see your animated reaction or even giving them helpful advice. Just paying attention to the words coming out of their mouth and responding in depth beats sitting their with a blank expression on your face that shows them you’re totally uninterested in what they are trying to confide within you. Even just letting that person know they have someone and that they aren’t alone could mean the world to them.
To put yourself in someone else’s shoes as they go through a difficult time gives you a better understanding of what they are going through. It shows your humanity to be empathetic and brings out a certain kindness to you that people can really appreciate. And if we’re being honest, we could all use a little more kindness these days.
Coming from my personal experiences, I always try and relate to someone when they’re sharing a difficult time with me. It creates a greater bond between myself and that person, and it helps me understand their situation better. Putting myself in their shoes makes me realize if I were going through their situation, it would mean the world to me to have someone who will sit there and listen and really feel for what I’m going through. I believe no one deserves to feel alone in this world. Having empathy and showing it towards another individual who could really use the compassion helps them feel like they have at least one person who can relate to them.