I’m a fan of Brene Brown. Her TED talks are thought provoking. She seems to live consistently with the content she’s sharing, and she’s able to deliver big ideas in very palatable ways. In the video below, she discusses the difference between sympathy and empathy, highlighting the connecting power of empathy and the disconnect common with sympathy.
The two concepts appear to be closely associated; however sympathy, too often, is limited to feeling pity that exacerbate differences between people. Pity involves magnifying the differences between us, but often ignoring the similarities. This drives separation rather than connection. Empathy opens the relationship to a shared experience and a more sincere understanding.
You may say the words are synonyms and the differences are merely semantic; however, I invite you to work towards being empathic in your next encounter and take note of how the interaction goes for you and for them. It may surprise you how the dynamic changes when you actively work to connect and be with someone…especially when they’re experiencing uncomfortable emotions. Challenge yourself to resist placing expectations on them to feel better. Resist putting a silver-lining on their pain. Be close, and do nothing. Be with them in their grief, anxiety, anger, sadness, or despair. Just be with them.