Empathy is best understood as a human capacity consisting of several different facets that work together to enable us to be moved by the plights and emotions of others.
Our empathic capacity requires specialized brain circuits that allow us to perceive, process, and respond to others….The integration of these three very human activities predicts how “empathic” a person will be.
When people show empathy for others, they are usually good at perceiving what others feel, able to process the information, and able to respond effectively.
Importance of Empathy
Empathy is important because it helps us understand how others are feeling so we can respond appropriately to the situation. It is typically associated with social behaviour and there is lots of research showing that greater empathy leads to more helping behaviour.
So, now let’s talk about the importance of empathy when it’s used wisely.
1. Forms meaningful connections
When we are genuinely empathetic to someone, it leaves a lasting impact on them.As you become more empathetic, you’ll be able to become a better person in every relationship of your life, be it with a friend, family member, colleague, partner, stranger, or even the world at large.
.2. Develops wisdom without first-hand experiences
Empathetic people are great listeners. And, listening is a very effective way of learning.Since empathy makes you put yourself in the place of others without actually experiencing their situation, you are able to learn lessons without even engaging in them.
3. Creates a humane society
Imagine a world full of empathetic people. People who reach out to one another. People who choose to accept more than expected. Those who don’t look out for only themselves.
Empathy makes people understand that there are responsibilities that they might not have been handed, but ones that if they take upon will benefit the society as a whole.