A lack of empathy is one of the defining characteristics of low emotional intelligence.
To have empathy, you must put yourself in another person's shoes — to feel what they are feeling and seek to understand their perspective.
You must step outside of your own needs and feelings to be present and engaged with someone else.
Empathy calls for patience, active listening, intimacy, and selflessness.
It requires a generous and giving spirit and a true desire to sit with someone in their most difficult moments or share in their most joyous accomplishments.
Some people are naturally empathetic, but people who lack empathy can learn and reinforce the skills of empathy and compassion.
To do that, we must recognize its value not only in our relationships but also in our personal growth.
Practicing empathy expands our understanding of ourselves and others.
It connects us to the human condition — the suffering, the joys, the sorrows, and the longings we all share. It draws us closer to the people around us and frees us to be vulnerable and authentic with them.