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Empathy vs. Sympathy - Brene Brown
Created By The RSA
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This animated RSA Short features Dr. Brené Brown reminding us that the best way to ease someone's pain and suffering is through genuine empathetic connection. The kicker? You have to be brave enough to get in touch with your own brokenness.
According to Theresa Wiseman, a nursing scholar, there are 4 qualities of empathy that you need to be aware of:
1) Perspective taking
2) Staying out of judgement
3) Recognizing emotion in other people
4) Communicating with that emotion
Brené Brown suggests that one of the key differences between an empathetic response and a sympathetic response is that an empathetic response rarely begins with “well...at least”.
Rather than suggesting a silver lining, try to form a connection with the person who is sharing their feelings with you. This strategy will help boost your friendships, relationships, and any other situation where someone is hoping you can help ease their pain.