How well do you understand other people’s views and experiences? Are you able to put yourself in their shoes and imagine what it might be like to be them? This is what we call empathy.
The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California defines empathy as “the ability to sense other people’s emotions, coupled with the ability to imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling.”
This sounds straightforward, but it is not necessarily that simple. In a world filled with countless diverse opinions and experiences, empathy serves as a guiding light in how we treat one another. However, remaining empathetic isn’t always easy, especially in the face of strong emotions, views you find challenging, or experiences that differ greatly from your own.
Here’s 6 things you can do to be empathetic to other people’s views and perspectives.
1. Practise active listening
The core of empathy lies in understanding one another, and understanding comes from active listening. Reflect and think about when you knew someone was listening to you properly. Maybe it was a tutor or a friend. How could you tell they cared about what you had to say? What did you notice in their language or body language? These are the kind of things you can use when you listen to others.
When you’re having a conversation, listen to the other person respectfully without interrupting them. Focus on trying to understand their perspective, even if you disagree with it. Ask clarifying questions to deepen your understanding and rephrase their thoughts back to them to ensure you’ve understood their viewpoint accurately. You can say something like, “what I heard you say is…” and then repeat what you thought they said in your own words.
By demonstrating genuine interest and respect for others’ experiences, you lay the groundwork for empathetic communication.
2. Seek common ground
In the modern world, discourse can get heated and it can often seem as though our differences overshadow our similarities. One of the most powerful antidotes to this is to consciously seek out common ground with those who hold different views or have had very different life experiences.
Beneath the surface, most of us share similar emotions, desires, and aspirations. Whether it’s shared interests, values, or life experiences, finding common ground with others fosters connection and bridges divides. Embracing this common ground doesn’t negate differences, but serves as a starting point for respectful dialogue, understanding, and empathy.
3. Stay curious
Approach diverse perspectives and different views with a spirit of curiosity and openness to learning. Instead of immediately dismissing viewpoints that are different from your own, try to delve deeper to understand the underlying feelings, desires, and experiences that shape them.
Ask other people questions with genuine curiosity, and be willing to challenge your preconceptions in light of new information. Changing your mind when it is appropriate is a sign of personal growth and strength, not weakness. This type of intentional curiosity fosters empathy by encouraging you to see the world through others’ eyes.
4. Acknowledge privilege and unconscious bias
We all have different experiences, and if we are in a position of privilege those experiences can prevent us from understanding others’ perspectives fully. It is important to reflect on your own privilege and examine the biases you might hold (consciously or unconsciously) that shape your view of others and your ability to empathise with them.
Your lived experiences may differ from those of others due to factors outside of your control such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or disability. Be mindful of how the privileges you hold can shape your worldview and influence your interactions with others.
It’s very normal to hold unconscious biases. We all have them! However, it’s vital to challenge them, too. Whether your incorrect beliefs stem from cultural stereotypes, societal norms, or personal experiences, acknowledging and working to dismantle them is a vital step in fostering empathy and removing barriers to mutual understanding.
5. Engage in constructive dialogue
Constructive conversations are crucial in fostering a more empathetic and accepting world. You can cultivate them by approaching discussions–particularly those about sensitive subjects–with respect and openness, acknowledging the shared humanity of everyone involved and the validity of all viewpoints.
Aim to create safe and inclusive spaces where diverse perspectives are welcomed and all voices are valued. In the event of disagreements, look for common ground and try to find mutually beneficial solutions. Ask plenty of questions (remember that spirit of curiosity we discussed above?) and do not assume that you have all the answers.
6. Set boundaries and look after yourself
Empathy for others is essential, but so is extending compassion to yourself. It’s important to set boundaries and prioritise self-care. Being empathetic does not mean neglecting or harming yourself in service to others!
Nourish your body with food and movement, spend time with your loved ones, engage in hobbies and creative pursuits that bring you joy, and recognise when you need a break. By honouring your own needs in this way, you can maintain the strength and resilience you’ll need to extend empathy and care to others.
Want to read more?
To find out more about communication and your relationships with other, why not explore other articles about this topic:
- Handling Difficult Conversations: Deciding When To Disagree And Disengage
- Having And Hearing Difficult Conversations At Work
- How To Learn More About Other People And Their Experiences
- 8 Skills You Develop When You Explore Different Views
- Navigating 2924 with strength and resilience
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