Practicing Empathic Listening

"It could be worse" and "you'll be fine" are not examples of empathic listening.

Empathic listening is necessary for any courageous conversation that seeks to address conflict or connect with others on a deeper level. Empathic listeners don't just hear words, but seek to understand the authentic feelings behind them. They aren't judgmental. They don't try to fix someone else or dismiss their emotions or experience!

❤️‍🩹 Empathic Listening (I want to hear you)
-I'm listening
-That sounds heavy
-What did that make you feel?
-How can I show up for you moving forward?
-I'm here
-Is there more?
-It sounds like you're saying... is that accurate?

🙉 Dismissive Listening (I want to fix you)
-It could be worse
-The same thing happened to my friend...
-What if you try this?
-Aw! Don't be upset!
-Oh! You should read/listen/follow...
-You'll be fine!
-I totally get it.. One time...

One of the best ways we can show up for our colleagues, friends, and neighbors during difficult times is to listen with curiosity and empathy. When we truly listen, we build trust and create a space for others to feel valued, heard, and understood.

ID: Social media post of illustration entitled Empathic Listening Instead of Dismissive Listening. Image Credit: @keeleyshawart