Empathy in Communication: Basic Advice

Empathy in communication requires the suspension of ego-based agendas and the need to be right. The ability to recognize another’s feelings, feel those feelings as personally relatable, and respond compassionately within subsequent communication has the power to diffuse the tension in most conflicts.

“Choosing with integrity means finding ways to speak up that honor your reality, the reality of others, and your willingness to meet in the center of that large field. It’s hard sometimes.”

Terry Tempest Williams

If we wish to be heard, we must be willing to recognize the reality of others. Our inner world, life’s experiences, inner wounding, and biases are uniquely our own. As unique as everybody else’s. Keeping this in mind is a critical component to achieving empathy in communication. This is not to suggest that we compromise our core values but instead find common ground and shared experiences on which to build. Only then is progress possible.

“If the person you are talking to doesn’t appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear.”

 A.A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh
Empathy in Communication

Many factors influence a person’s ability to be emotionally and cognitively present. If you are experiencing frustration with another around feeling heard, explain to them that you’ve noticed their difficulty with staying ‘present.’ Extend compassion, a genuine offer of support, and listen to what is both being said and not being said. Seek first to understand and, above all, be patient. “Fluff” takes many forms. (read more The Most Potent Form of Communication is Embodying Your Truth)

For more information on developing empathy in communication or Empowerment Coaching, please visit my Coaching Services or Metaphysical Services (Spiritual Tools 101) pages. Wishing you much growth, healing, empowerment, and peace as you work toward taking greater energetic self-mastery for yourself and within your relationships.

Estelle Bonaceto
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