Recently, I had a number of experiences with people telling me of some very trying circumstances.
And at first, I found myself listening and talking to them about it, but then my mind started to get distracted by other things going on and other problems in my life that I needed to deal with.
So after we finished speaking about their respective family, work, and even health problems, I felt that I may have cut off some of these conversations too early or without enough empathy.
After clearing my head, I thought to myself, I really want to listen better and empathize more.
And so I went back and did just that.
I found each person (in person, by phone, or email), and I said that I felt sorry for what they were going through, and I asked more questions and tried to really just be in the moment and there for them.
They seemed to each really appreciate me taking the time and effort to come speak with them and that I cared.
I know that I am human and make mistakes, but I want to continually grow and do better in life.
In this case, listening better and empathizing more--it felt great and I learned to listen to my conscience and do more when I think it's right! ;-)
(Source Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
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