Moral Lessons

Published August 28, 2024

New beginnings are a universal experience, whether they come in the form of a new job, a move to a different city, or a fresh start after a significant life event. They symbolize hope, growth, and the chance to start anew.

However, embarking on a new journey can often be daunting. That’s where the wisdom of others can be incredibly valuable. Quotes about new beginnings can provide the inspiration and motivation needed to embrace change with an open heart and a positive mindset.

Quotes About New Beginnings

Here are 50 uplifting quotes to help you navigate your new beginnings with confidence and joy.

1. “Every moment is a fresh beginning.” – T.S. Eliot

This quote reminds us that every second offers an opportunity to start over and make things right.

2. “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” – Plato

Plato emphasizes the importance of the initial steps we take in any venture, setting the foundation for future success.

3. “New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings.” – Lao Tzu

Often, the end of one chapter allows us to begin a new, more fulfilling one.

4. “Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

This quote encourages us to move forward even without knowing what lies ahead, trusting in the journey.

5. “The magic in new beginnings is truly the most powerful of them all.” – Josiyah Martin

New beginnings bring a certain magic that fuels our aspirations and dreams.

6. “Every day is a chance to begin again. Don’t focus on the failures of yesterday, start today with positive thoughts and expectations.” – Catherine Pulsifer

Each day is a blank slate, offering a fresh start and new possibilities.

7. “You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call ‘failure’ is not the falling down, but the staying down.” – Mary Pickford

Failure is not the end; it’s an invitation to begin again, stronger and wiser.

8. “Beginnings are always messy.” – John Galsworthy

This quote acknowledges the chaotic nature of starting something new, encouraging us to embrace the messiness.

9. “No one can ever take your memories from you – each day is a new beginning, make good memories every day.” – Catherine Pulsifer

Cherish memories while continually creating new, joyful ones.

10. “The best time for new beginnings is now.” – Anonymous

There’s no need to wait; the best moment to start afresh is always the present.

11. “Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.” – Jim Rohn

Positive changes come from our deliberate actions and willingness to embrace new beginnings.

12. “Don’t be afraid of change. You may lose something good, but you may gain something even better.” – Anonymous

Change often leads to unexpected and wonderful opportunities.

13. “The secret to a rich life is to have more beginnings than endings.” – Dave Weinbaum

A life filled with new beginnings is a life filled with rich experiences and growth.

14. “Nothing in the universe can stop you from letting go and starting over.” – Guy Finley

The power to start anew is always within our grasp, unhindered by external forces.

15. “Getting over a painful experience is much like crossing monkey bars. You have to let go at some point to move forward.” – C.S. Lewis

Moving forward often requires us to release the past and embrace the future.

16. “The beginning is always today.” – Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley

Every day presents an opportunity to start afresh and redefine our paths.

17. “The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide you’re not going to stay where you are.” – J.P. Morgan

Deciding to move forward is the critical first step in any new beginning.

18. “There will come a time when you believe everything is finished; that will be the beginning.” – Louis L’Amour

Endings often signal the start of something new and exciting.

19. “Do not wait until the conditions are perfect to begin. Beginning makes the conditions perfect.” – Alan Cohen

Perfection is not a prerequisite for starting; starting creates the path to perfection.

20. “Keep on beginning and failing. Each time you fail, start all over again, and you will grow stronger until you have accomplished a purpose—not the one you began with perhaps, but one you’ll be glad to remember.” – Anne Sullivan

Every failure is a step towards a greater goal, each new beginning making us stronger.

21. “Life is about change, sometimes it’s painful, sometimes it’s beautiful, but most of the time it’s both.” – Kristin Kreuk

Change and new beginnings bring a mix of pain and beauty, both essential for growth.

22. “And suddenly you just know it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings.” – Meister Eckhart

There comes a moment when we instinctively know it’s time for a new start.

23. “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” – Seneca

The end of one journey marks the start of another, each journey interconnected.

24. “What is not started today is never finished tomorrow.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Procrastination delays progress; starting today ensures tomorrow’s success.

25. “New beginnings are exciting. They really are a lot of fun and a challenge, but it’s also a chance to wipe the slate clean and start again.” – Edie Brickell

The excitement of new beginnings lies in the opportunity to start with a clean slate.

26. “Embrace each challenge in your life as an opportunity for self-transformation.” – Bernie S. Siegel

Challenges that come with new beginnings are opportunities for personal growth.

27. “No river can return to its source, yet all rivers must have a beginning.” – Native American Proverb

Every journey has a starting point, even if the path taken cannot be reversed.

28. “It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Eliot

New beginnings offer a chance to become the person you’ve always wanted to be.

29. “Don’t live the same year 75 times and call it a life.” – Robin Sharma

A life filled with new beginnings and varied experiences is truly lived.

30. “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe

We don’t need perfection to start; using what we have is enough to begin.

31. “The key to change is to let go of fear.” – Rosanne Cash

Letting go of fear unlocks the potential for new and beautiful beginnings.

32. “If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.” – Paulo Coelho

Courage in farewells ushers in the joy of new hellos.

33. “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis

Age is no barrier to new beginnings and fresh dreams.

34. “Begin at once to live, and count each separate day as a separate life.” – Seneca

Each day is a standalone opportunity to live fully and start new.

35. “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

Successes and failures are part of the journey; what matters is the courage to keep going.

36. “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go. They merely determine where you start.” – Nido Qubein

Current conditions set the starting point, but the destination is yours to choose.

Published August 14, 2024

Confidence is a key ingredient in leading a satisfying and successful life. Whether you’re aiming to excel in your career, build strong relationships, or simply feel better about yourself, confidence can make a world of difference. One powerful tool to boost your confidence is the use of positive affirmations.

These are simple, yet effective statements that can help reshape your mindset and foster self-belief. In this article, we’ll explore how to use confidence affirmations to enhance your self-esteem and achieve your goals.

What Are Confidence Affirmations?

Confidence affirmations are positive statements that you repeat to yourself to build self-assurance and counteract negative thoughts. They work by reprogramming your subconscious mind and helping you develop a more positive self-image.

When practiced regularly, these affirmations can help you face challenges with a renewed sense of confidence and determination.

The Science Behind Positive Affirmations

Research has shown that positive affirmations can activate the brain’s reward centers, helping to reduce stress and improve overall mental well-being.

When you repeat affirmations, you’re essentially rewiring your brain to think in healthier, more constructive ways. This can lead to a significant boost in confidence and self-esteem over time.

How to Create Effective Confidence Affirmations

Creating effective confidence affirmations involves a few key steps:

1. Be Specific and Positive

Ensure your affirmations are specific and phrased positively. Rather than saying, “I am not afraid of public speaking,” say, “I am a confident and engaging public speaker.”

2. Use the Present Tense

Frame your affirmations as if they are already true. This helps your mind accept them more readily. For example, “I am confident in my abilities” is more effective than “I will be confident someday.”

3. Keep Them Concise

Short and simple affirmations are easier to remember and repeat. Aim for statements that are easy to integrate into your daily routine.

4. Make Them Personal

Tailor your affirmations to your own needs and goals. Personalizing your affirmations makes them more meaningful and impactful.

Practical Tips for Using Confidence Affirmations

1. Daily Practice

Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of confidence affirmations. Set aside a few minutes each day to repeat your affirmations, preferably in the morning to set a positive tone for the day.

2. Write Them Down

Writing your affirmations down can reinforce their impact. Consider keeping a journal where you can jot down your affirmations and reflect on your progress.

3. Use Visual Reminders

Place sticky notes with your affirmations in prominent places like your bathroom mirror, your workspace, or your car. These visual cues can serve as constant reminders to stay positive and confident.

4. Incorporate Them into Meditation

If you practice meditation, incorporate your confidence affirmations into your sessions. This can deepen their impact and help you internalize them more effectively.

5. Say Them with Conviction

When repeating your affirmations, say them with conviction and belief. The more you believe in the statements, the more powerful they become.

20 Confidence Affirmations To Get You Started

1. I am worthy of success and happiness.

2. I trust in my abilities and skills.

3. I am confident in my decisions.

4. I embrace challenges with courage and strength.

5. I believe in myself and my potential.

6. I am proud of my achievements and future goals.

7. I am resilient and can overcome any obstacle.

8. I am growing and improving every day.

9. I am deserving of love and respect.

10. I am bold, brave, and beautiful.

11. I handle difficulties with grace and ease. 

12. I am capable of achieving great things.

13. I radiate confidence and self-assurance.

14. I am a valuable and important person.

15. I face my fears and move forward with confidence.

16. I am in control of my thoughts and emotions.

17. I am a powerful creator of my own destiny.

18. I am at peace with who I am.

19. I attract positive energy and good experiences.

20. I am enough just as I am.

Published July 29, 2024

In our fast-paced modern world, pursuing happiness is a never-ending quest. People turn to various philosophies and lifestyles in search of well-being and contentment.

One such philosophy that has gained attention is the Epicurean lifestyle. But what is it exactly, and can it truly make you happier?

Let’s explore the principles of Epicurean philosophy, its historical background, and how it can potentially enhance our well-being.

The Historical Roots of Epicurean Philosophy

Epicurean philosophy traces its origins back to ancient Greece, circa 307 BC, when the philosopher Epicurus founded it.

 At its core, Epicureanism is a system of thought that emphasizes pursuing pleasure and avoiding pain as the primary components of a good life.

However, it’s essential to understand that the Epicureans’ definition of pleasure is not about hedonistic indulgence but rather a state of tranquility and freedom from fear, often referred to as ‘ataraxia.’

Epicurus believed the key to happiness lay in simple living, intellectual pursuits, and cultivating friendships. He argued that many anxieties and desires plaguing human life are unnecessary and can be mitigated by focusing on the simple joys and pleasures life offers.

Principles of the Epicurean Lifestyle

1. Pursuit of Pleasure and Avoidance of Pain

At first glance, pursuing pleasure might seem synonymous with indulgence, but Epicurean philosophy is about achieving a stable and enduring state of happiness.

This involves seeking modest pleasures, such as enjoying a good meal, spending time with loved ones, and engaging in meaningful conversations.

2. Simple Living

Epicurus advocated for a lifestyle that prioritizes simplicity over material wealth. According to him, the constant pursuit of material possessions and wealth can lead to more stress and anxiety. Instead, focusing on simple yet fulfilling activities can lead to greater satisfaction and well-being.

3. Intellectual Pursuits

Engaging in intellectual activities and philosophical discussions was another pillar of the Epicurean lifestyle.

Epicurus believed that by studying philosophy and pursuing knowledge, individuals could better understand the world and find greater peace and contentment.

4. Cultivation of Friendships

Epicurus highly valued friendships and social connections. He believed that strong, supportive relationships are crucial to achieving happiness.

Spending quality time with friends and building a supportive community can significantly enhance well-being.

Can the Epicurean Lifestyle Make You Happier?

The principles of the Epicurean lifestyle offer a compelling blueprint for achieving happiness and well-being in today’s world. Here’s how adopting this philosophy can lead to a more fulfilling life:

Reduction of Stress and Anxiety

By focusing on simple living and minimizing unnecessary desires, you can reduce the stress and anxiety that often come with pursuing material wealth and social status.

This shift in focus allows you to appreciate life’s more minor, meaningful pleasures.

Enhanced Well-Being Through Social Connections

Building and maintaining strong friendships can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, which is essential to happiness.

The Epicurean emphasis on social connections highlights the importance of community and mutual support in achieving a fulfilling life.

Greater Contentment through Intellectual Engagement

Engaging in intellectual pursuits and philosophical discussions can provide a sense of purpose and direction.

This can lead to greater mental stimulation and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world, contributing to overall well-being.

Achievement of a Balanced Life

Epicureanism promotes a balanced approach to life, where pleasure is derived from simple and sustainable sources rather than fleeting and extravagant indulgences. This balance can lead to a more stable and enduring sense of happiness.

Also read: 50+ Uplifting Quotes on the Pursuit of Happiness

Published June 11, 2024

For Christians, the Bible is one of the best sources of stories with moral lessons. So, if you’re looking for stories about helping others, look no further than the Bible.

The Bible abounds with stories about helping others, charity, and kindness from the Old to the New Testament. Here are some of them:

Bible Stories About Helping Others

1. The Good Samaritan

When discussing helping others, there’s no bible story more famous than the Parable of the Good Samaritan.

If you’re not familiar with the story, it’s about a Samaritan who helped a Jew who was beaten and left to die on the side of the road. A Jewish priest first passed by him, followed by a Levite, but both ignored the dying man. And then a third man passed by – a Samaritan. The Samaritan took pity on the man, bandaged his wounds, and took him to the nearest inn to recover. He even paid the innkeeper to care for the Jew until he was fully recovered.

The most compelling part of this story is that, in Jesus’ time, Jews and Samaritans were sworn enemies. And it’s not just a simple family or tribal feud. We’re talking about a deep-rooted hatred that goes back generations. Because of this, they don’t talk to or trust each other.

Yet, as the story tells us, of the three people who passed by the dying man, only the Samaritan stopped and helped. He didn’t care that the dying man was a Jew; instead, he saw a fellow human being who was in great need of help.

This makes the Good Samaritan Parable one of the greatest Bible stories about helping others. It tells us that kindness has no race or borders. If someone is in need and we are in a position to extend help, we should do so. Someone’s belief, skin color, or religion shouldn’t matter because we all belong to the same race – the human race.

2. Moses and the Pharaoh’s Daughter

Most Christians are familiar with who Moses was and how he helped free the Israelites from slavery. Yet the story of how he, an Israelite, became the son of an Egyptian princess is often left untold.

Moses was born when there was much fear among Egyptians that the Israelites might one day rise against them. So the king of Egypt ordered that all baby boys born to a Hebrew (another name for Israelite) mother must be killed.

To save his life, Moses’ mother put him in a basket and allowed the basket to float down the Nile River. One of Pharaoh’s daughters was bathing in the river at that moment. When she saw the floating basket, she became curious and asked one of her servants to pluck it from the water.

Upon opening the basket, she saw that it was a Hebrew baby. Knowing full well the danger he was in, she took pity on Moses and adopted him. And that’s how Moses grew up in the court of the Egyptian king.

Just like the parable of the good Samaritan, Moses’ adoption story proves that kindness transcends race. The Egyptian princess was well aware of her father’s orders. Yet she went against him and risked his wrath to save the boy. She may not have known it then, but her act of kindness eventually saved an entire nation.

3. Jonathan and David

What would you do if you learned that your father intends to kill your best friend? This was the dilemma Jonathan, son of the Israelite king Saul, faced.

Saul was the reigning king of Israel when God instructed the prophet Samuel to anoint the successor He chose. So Samuel went and anointed David, a shepherd’s son from Bethlehem. David went on to serve the king and even commanded an army. He and Saul seemed to get along well in the beginning.

At this time, Saul’s son, Jonathan, liked David. The two became good friends and even swore to protect each other.

But when David killed the giant Goliath, the people started singing him praise. This triggered intense jealousy in Saul. He tried to kill David twice but failed. So, he sent him to fight in battles, hoping the enemies would do the job he failed to do. But instead of being killed, he won battle after battle.

When Saul heard this, he became even furrier and ordered his men to kill David. When his son Jonathan heard about this, he warned David, and he was able to escape. Then Jonathan convinces his father to spare David, but his father’s wrath intensifies, so he helps David escape to his hometown.

Upon learning about what his son had done, Saul exploded. He told Jonathan he could never be king as long as David was alive. To which Jonathan replied, “Why should he be put to death? What has he done?” In his anger, Saul almost killed his son, but Jonathan did not falter. He protected David even if it meant going against his father.

At first glance, Jonathan and David’s story might seem like a perfect example of a story about true friendship. But it also tells us that helping others requires great sacrifices. Imagine choosing between your father, the possibility of being a king, and your best friend’s life. But sometimes, you just have to do what your conscience says is right, no matter what it may cost.

4. Joseph the Dreamer

Joseph, son of Jacob, is probably one of the most remarkable stories in the Bible.

As a young man, Joseph was sold by his brothers to slave traders. He was then sold to a master in Egypt who sent him to prison for a crime he didn’t do. But because of it, he had the opportunity to interpret the Pharaoh’s dream.

Joseph told the king that his dream was a premonition that Egypt would have seven years of abundance followed by seven years of severe famine. With this, he suggested that the king keep some of the harvests so that Egypt would not starve when famine came.

Heeding his proposal, the king appointed Joseph governor of all Egypt, second only to him. Thus, Egypt was saved from the famine that struck most surrounding lands.

One day, his brothers, who sold him, came to Egypt desperate for food, as the famine had also hit their land. They did not recognize Joseph initially since he was quite young when they sold him, but Joseph recognized his brothers immediately.

Despite what they did to him, Joseph helped them. He gave them food and even let them bring their families to Egypt to escape the famine in their homeland.

Joseph’s story is a powerful example of forgiveness and kindness. After everything that he went through because of them, he could have refused to help his brothers. Yet, he didn’t. He helped them because he knew they’d starve if he didn’t. And that’s how helping others should be. We should not think about what will happen if we help those in need but what will happen if we don’t.

(Related: Why Are Moral Values Important in Children?)

Published February 12, 2024

In the Bible, we read many stories about Jesus’ ministry. He healed the sick and performed miracles. But we often fail to see the lessons he is trying to teach us through those acts.

Let’s not forget that Jesus is one of the greatest teachers. He used parables and stories to teach us about the kingdom of God. But his greatest method is teaching by example.

His deeds taught us about many Christian values, such as kindness and compassion. He raised children from the dead out of pity for their parents and accepted disciples from all walks of life. Most important of all, he gave up his life so all of us could be saved.

Bible Stories About Kindness

Here are five more Bible stories of Jesus teaching us about kindness.

1. Healing the Leper

When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.”

Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy. Then Jesus said to him, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” – Matthew 8:1-4

Because of the communicability of their disease, lepers have been considered outcasts in Jesus’ time. They lived separately and were considered “unclean” and “untouchable.”

But Jesus, taking pity on the leper, healed him of his disease. He didn’t see the man as a leper but a sick human who needed his help.

Through this, Jesus taught us that kindness should go beyond social stereotypes. We should look at where they’re coming from and understand their circumstances. Only then can we develop genuine compassion.

In the words of Mother Teresa, “If you judge people, you have no time to love them.”

2. Dining With a Sinner

Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was. But because he was short, he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him since Jesus was coming that way.

When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.

All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.”

But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”

Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – Luke 19:1-10

Would you be willing to dine with an ex-convict, a known sinner? Most of us would have hesitated, while others would flat-out say “no.”

Zacchaeus may not be a convicted criminal, but in the eyes of the Jews, he might as well be. In Jesus’ time, tax collectors often abused their powers to line their pockets with the people’s hard-earned money.

Yet, Jesus never hesitated to dine with him. He didn’t care if others would see him associating with a sinner. He didn’t care if people would hate him for it. That is the kind of kindness that the world needs today. (Related: 50 Acts of Kindness You Can Do Today)

We should stop seeing people for the wrongs they’ve committed. Instead, we should judge how they try to right those wrongs and turn their lives around.

3. Preaching to the Gentiles

Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.

When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)

The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews, do not associate with Samaritans.)

Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”

“Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?”

Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” – John 4:4-14

Xenophobia is one of the biggest problems the world has today. But this prejudice of foreigners has been going on even in Jesus’ time.

The Samaritan woman is a foreigner; in the eyes of a Jew, she’s a gentile. These two races don’t associate. It’s frowned upon to talk to a gentile.

Thus, by preaching to a Samaritan woman, Jesus broke societal boundaries and showed us that kindness is universal. We shouldn’t only be kind to those of our race. Everybody deserves compassion regardless of their skin color or religious beliefs.

4. Showing Compassion to the Sick

As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.

“Who touched me?” Jesus asked.

When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.”

But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.”

Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. Then he told her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” – Luke 8:40-48

In this story, Jesus could have reprimanded the woman for touching. But he didn’t. Since women didn’t have many rights then, he could have “put her in her place.” Yet, he chose not to.

Instead, he called her daughter – a term of endearment. He understood her struggles and desperation, which led her to do what she did.

What do you think the woman felt at that moment? She was clearly scared as she was trembling. It’s possible that because of her illness, she wasn’t treated well by the people around her. But can you imagine her relief when Jesus showed her kindness and compassion instead of reproach? How do you think this single act of kindness changed that woman’s life?

Published January 15, 2024

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. Take note of the keywords “understand” and “share”. This means that empathy is not about sympathizing with or showing pity for others.

Empathy is putting yourself in another person’s shoes. It’s about seeing their struggles from their perspective and feeling what they feel as your own. It’s the ability to visualize yourself in that person’s situation.

We all have different experiences that molded us into who we are today. These experiences also shape our perceptions of things and people. This is why it’s not always easy to understand what others are going through. We did not experience all that they had experienced, so it’s hard to imagine ourselves in their situations.

For instance, people who have never been homeless will find it difficult to understand how it is to have no place to call home. If you’ve never lost a child, it can be hard to put yourself in a grieving mother’s shoes. Or if you’ve never experienced depression, it won’t be easy for you to relate with people who had to live with it.

But we can always TRY to understand where they’re coming from. As humans, one of our defining characteristics is our capacity for empathy. We are innately emotionally intelligent, and our brains are hardwired to empathize with others.

We don’t always need to experience homelessness to empathize with homeless people. Nor do we need to lose a loved one to empathize with those who did. What matters is the willingness to understand their circumstances from their point of view.

This is why showing and practicing empathy is not just about words. It’s a lot more about actions. It’s in how you make people feel that someone still cares. You don’t always need grand gestures to show that you empathize. You can express it even in the little things you do. 

How To Show Empathy

1. Listen To Understand

Most of the time, people need to feel heard. This is why listening is one of the first steps to showing empathy. And if you do decide to lend your ear to someone, listen to understand.

Many don’t like listening to people whining about their lot in life. Especially if we, too, have our burdens to bear. So, most of the time, their words go in one ear and out the other. We listen for the sake of listening, not because we want to understand.

But if you want to show empathy, actively listen to what they say. Let them talk with no interruption. Let them pour their heart out. Look at their facial expressions and read between the lines. Listen to their words and the silent screams of frustration inside them. Sometimes, it takes only one person willing to listen and understand to take someone out of their misery.

2. Ask With Genuine Curiosity

Asking questions like “How are you?” or “How’s your day?” is a great way to start conversations. But most of the time, we only ask people those questions out of politeness rather than genuine curiosity. That’s why most conversations start and end with those questions.

But as one clinical psychologist puts it, the core of empathy is curiosity. If you want to understand someone, you need to dig deeper. Show that you are interested in what they have to say. Rather than asking how their day went, let them talk about something interesting that happened to them.

But not in a way that makes them feel like they’re in a job interview or a therapist’s office. Ask them like you would a friend or a loved one. A simple act builds rapport and makes the person feel that they matter and that someone cares for them.

3. Be Present

Nothing can be more irritating than talking to someone mentally wandering around. So imagine what the other person would feel if you were staring at your gadget the whole time they were talking. Listening to others about their problems can sometimes be awkward or boring. So, the temptation to doze off or play with your gadget can be hard to resist.

This is why being present and paying attention to people is a great way to show sympathy. If you can focus on the person in front of you, it will tell them that you’re willing to listen. It shows that you care about them and that you’re someone they can pour their heart out to.

4. Let Go of Your Biases

All of us are guilty of having biases and prejudices. But it doesn’t mean we can’t unlearn them. If you want to show empathy to others sincerely, you first need to let go of all your biases. Learn to listen with an open mind. Remember, we all have different experiences. All of us are fighting a battle that nobody but us knows about. So don’t be too quick to judge anyone without first understanding their motivations.

5. Refrain From Offering Unsolicited Advice

People who share their problems with you are not necessarily looking for advice. Sometimes, they just need a shoulder to cry on. So, as much as possible, avoid offering unsolicited advice. I know you mean well, but receiving unsolicited advice doesn’t sit well with people going through a tough time. Remember, they need someone to understand them, not someone who tells them what to do.

6. Look Them In The Eye

They say that the eyes are the windows to one’s soul. That’s why looking someone in the eye is a great way to convey empathy and sincerity. Most people also see eye-to-eye contact as a way of sharing your soul with the other person.

But remember to do it naturally and not in a creepy way. Also, you can’t do this with anyone. Some people are uncomfortable maintaining eye contact, and you must respect that.

7. Acknowledge Their Feelings

Everyone’s feelings are valid, even if you disagree with their beliefs and decisions. So avoid telling people phrases like “it’s alright, you’ll get through it” or “just look on the bright side.” 

Though these may sound reassuring, it invalidates their feelings and emotional pain. Instead, tell them, “I’m sorry you are going through this” or “I can’t imagine what you must be going through.” It shows that you acknowledge their feelings and that it’s perfectly understandable for them to feel that way.

Besides, research has shown that emotional validation helps people better regulate their emotions. This, in turn, makes them less likely to show aggression.

8. Open Up About a Similar Experience

Though it may seem like you should focus on the other person, practicing empathy is a two-way street. Sometimes, it helps to open up about your experience in a similar situation so others can see their predicament from a different perspective. But be careful not to make the conversation about you. It should share experiences and perspectives so you can learn from each other.

9. Practice Mindfulness

According to a Harvard health article, mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. Being mindful of your environment and the people around you will help you see things in a different light. It enables you to develop a keen sense of understanding towards them, which eventually leads to a heightened sense of empathy.

10. Accept Their Opinion

People forcing their opinions on others is the reason why this world is so messed up. Remember that life is like a prism. We are all looking at the same structure, but we see it from a different perspective. Thus, it’s inevitable that we will have different opinions. And those whose views oppose yours aren’t necessarily wrong.

You just don’t see things from each other’s point of view. That’s why respecting and accepting other people’s opinions is crucial in learning empathy. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re disregarding your own opinion. It just means you are willing to look at things from their side of the prism. And that is what empathy is really about.

11. Try Out Someone’s Life

Putting yourself in their shoes is not enough to truly understand someone. You must walk in them. Try to live their life for even just a day. Visit them in their homes, go to their place of worship, or spend time in their neighborhood.

Or, if you want to get a glimpse of what homelessness is like, sit down and share a meal with a homeless person. You’ll be surprised at how much insight you’ll gain from experiencing another person’s life.