Tag: sympathy

A moment in their shoes

Posted on by philipdodson

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Before we jump to blame others or wait for them to be different, stop and understand them.

Empathy is a thing that is so missing from our culture. We are taught to bury emotions, be tough, soldier on. Therefore, we only extend sympathy at best to others. Most often we judge, blame, or get angry or irritated with other people.

A moment spent appreciating the other person’s environment, experiences, and position is one of the most valuable moments we can spend. It stops criticism, judgement, and knee-jerk reactions. Reduces irritation, anger, and hate.

It’s amazing to be able to truly understand others, to realise that they are only trying to do their best. That does not mean we accept everything that others do, but even if their actions are wrong, we are better placed when we understand and empathise.

Walk a moment in their shoes, feel for them, appreciate their situation, before doing anything.

Empathy not sympathy

Posted on by philipdodson

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Our default response to other people’s bad days or tough times or injuries is either, get on with it and don’t moan or sympathy.

People say to someone who’s broken their leg ‘well at least the other leg is OK’. Or if you have had an illness ‘well it could be worse you could have had….’.

Most people just want someone to listen and understand when they have shit happen in their life or they’ve had a bad day.

But being empathetic is seen as a weakness and we all need to display a ‘stiff upper lip’. The fact is it takes some vulnerability, bravery and kindness to empathise with others.

The world would be a less hateful, angry, judgemental and cold place if we all choose to understand, listen and empathise. Share feelings not repress them or judge others for showing and sharing them.