“You should try to understand how other people are feeling.” 1 Peter 3:8 EASY
Some people easily relate to the feelings of others. At the slightest chance, they consider how the next person feels and adjust their actions. For an average workaholic, empathy is not inherent. We can be the most inconsiderate bunch on the planet. Those who have it have learned it.
The focus scripture is part of a whole chapter that preaches love – the agape love that is so selfless you’ll almost look stupid. That’s why we struggle daily to grow and stay consistent in this perfect love because the ego always wants to win.
I had to learn to feel. Yes, it sounds inhuman, but I used to have a robotic approach to everything. Just get the job done and move on – it doesn’t matter who feels bad about what and why. I’ll empathize with you when you perform, but not before. But like breathing, empathy isn’t an item on a to-do list. It’s a source of light that brings out the best in us and others.
Mental health is a crucial part of our well-being. When you constantly experience burnout, negative emotions, or stress, it’s important to reset. To make empathy a reset button is to engage in activities that heighten your ability to feel. Such as:
1. Become self-aware. When you have empathy for yourself first, it’s easier to have it for others. You only become self-aware when you realise that something needs to change about how you work. Ask yourself how you feel and why. Take down notes. This is the beginning.
2. Use feedback. You probably have that annoying friend that’s always telling you to take a break or always suggesting a better way to get something done. Replay those conversations in your mind because your friend may be right.
3. Disconnect from work. Do you have a hobby that has nothing to do with work? Explore it. When you intentionally start an activity that’s not work-related, it’ll be easy to start another and before long, your perspective starts to shift.
You don’t just have empathy by saying you will have it. You must work on your mind and beliefs first. When it looks like you’ve become impossible to work with, it’s time to reset and learn from those who do it flawlessly.
Today’s Task: Take note of the negative emotions you have today. That’s a small step towards self-awareness.
Know someone who needs a reset? Share this with them.
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