Photo by Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona on Unsplash

America is in deep pain because we have a deficit of empathy, but empathy can be learned.

Hall and Leary write, “The coronavirus pandemic, racial injustice, economic insecurity, political polarization, misinformation, and general daily uncertainty dominate our lives.”

Empathy is what makes us human.

Research suggests that empathic people are more charitable and concerned about the welfare of others. They also are happier in their relationships and have a greater sense of well-being. Empathy is also associated with leadership and effective communication.

Empathy is an essential ingredient for forgiveness.

Take these five steps to increase your empathy:

1. Clear your mind of the things that bother you.
2. Listen carefully.
3. Suspend judgment.
4. Accept there may be no good answer.
5. Don’t assume ownership of others’ problems.

5 Steps to Increase Your Empathy