In this post, we will explore Empathy. Why is it important to “walk in someone else’s shoes?” According to a study by the Brookings Institution, “Higher curriculum standards don’t correlate to higher student achievement; empathy does.”
Empathy is also gaining attention as an important component of emotional intelligence and as a way to reduce bullying. When a person learns to understand and share the feelings of another, the pro-social behavior that results shows up in better relationships, closer friendships and stronger communities — it’s that important!
Here are five steps to cultivate empathy:
Watch & Listen: What is the other person saying, and what is his or her body language?
Remember: When did you feel the same way?
Imagine: How does the other person feel? And how would you feel in that situation?
Ask: Ask what the person is feeling.
Show You Care: Let him or her know that you care through your words and actions.
by Randy Taran
