As we navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, building strong relationships with colleagues and customers is vital to success. Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is often touted as a key tool for building these connections.
However, in my experience for some individuals, empathsing can be challenging or emotionally taxing.
To address this, it may be beneficial to expand our mental toolbox to include other strategies, such as perspective and compassion.
Perspective-taking involves understanding and acknowledging the views of others without necessarily feeling their emotions in your own body. This can be done by asking questions and reflecting on the potential perspectives of others, while understanding that they are the ultimate authority on their thoughts and feelings.
Compassion, on the other hand, involves caring for others and wanting them to thrive, even if you don’t share their emotions or perspective. By focusing on compassion, we can build solid and collaborative relationships, even in situations where we disagree with others.
It’s also important to note that while these strategies can be helpful, it’s important not to fall into the trap of toxic positivity, which can be harmful to both you and others.
Practicing self-compassion, by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend, can also be beneficial in honing these skills.
Best wishes
