Practising empathy
Most struggles are invisible. Small, practical ways to notice what others carry and respond well.
Team culture
We all have days where even listening is beyond us. And while we may try to hide our own feelings, the people around us may be having a hard time too, and need someone to be there for them. Empathy is a skill you can practise, not a temperament you either have or lack.
Listen actively
Empathic listening is more than taking in someone's words. You are showing that you care about them and their feelings, and that you will take the time to hear them out.
Listen patiently even when you do not agree. Show acceptance, which is not the same as agreement.
Withhold judgement
Approach the situation with curiosity for the other person's point of view. Judging before fully listening tends to produce interruptions, which frustrate the speaker and limit your understanding.
- Do not interrupt: hold questions and your own stories until they have finished
- Give feedback: nod, encourage them to continue, avoid fidgeting
- Paraphrase and reflect: summarise what they said, so they can hear that you heard it
Be understanding
Show that you are sympathetic to their story and understand where they are coming from. You do not have to fix it. Most of the time, being genuinely heard is the help.