Are You an Empathizer or a Sympathizer?

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February 8, 2014 a project of ServiceSpace Walk with me for a while, my friend --you in my shoes, I in yours -- and then let us talk. - Richelle E. Goodrich - Are You an Empathizer or a Sympathizer? Empathy and sympathy are not just two different approaches to confronting the emotional challenges of others: they are diametrically opposite responses in many important ways. Sympathy places another's problems at a distance from us, places us in a position of superiority, and "drives separation", says Dr. Brene Brown. Empathy, on the other hand, requires that one internalize the feelings of another. That shared experience drives interpersonal connection, she says. "What makes things better is connection." Watch this captivating RSA animation bring Brown's words to life. { read more } Be The Change The next time you find yourself feeling sorry for someone, try to shift your reaction from sympathy to empathy. Ask yourself: how are they feeling and when have I felt this way also? COMMENT | RATE               Related Good News A 39-year-long Lesson in Forgiveness No Greater Joy: Photos from Around the World There's More to Life Than Being Happy Barbara Kingsolver On How to Be Hopeful The College Course That's Changing Lives Building A Regret Free Life Relationships Are More Important than Ambition Bill Gates vs. Mother Teresa DailyGood is a volunteer-run initiative that delivers "good news" to 141,193 subscribers. There are many ways to help. To unsubscribe, click here. Other ServiceSpace projects include: KindSpring  //  KarmaTube  //  Conversations  //  Awakin  //  More