Empathy vs. Sympathy

Have you ever been going through a difficult time and all you wanted was the presence of another kind heart to be with you, holding space with a listening ear?

Many people can find themselves at a loss to know what to do when another person they love is suffering.

It seems so easy at times and like it must be second nature to know what to do - just listen and be present, right?

Unfortunately, it is not always that easy.

Due to our own individual traumas we may be triggered by another’s emotions, when in the past big feelings meant:

• Something bad is about to happen

• This is my fault and something is wrong with me

• I am responsible for fixing this

There can be many different reasons why emotions can have a triggering effect which can make acting in an empathetic way more difficult.

If this rings true to you or someone close to you, Brene Brown does an excellent job in helping to illustrate the difference between empathy and sympathy and just how important it can be.

Check out the video below and let me know your thoughts!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZBTYViDPlQ

Yours in wellness & healing,

Angela

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