When I was younger my parents taught me the difference between sympathy and empathy. The first supplies you with heart-felt feelings for another. The latter, is about being that person and feeling as they do. It is a simple enough concept, yet fully experiencing both terms brings about a greater understanding and ability to give.

As humans we are predisposed to think of ourselves and our own comfort. The majority of us, save the Gandhis and Mother Teresas of the world, don’t selflessly ask, “How must that feel for them?” Instead, we say (sometimes angrily),”What about me and how I feel?”

It is of course good to check in with oneself and know what you are indeed feeling, but then get past that and shift your focus. Internalize what those around you- especially those you care most about- are going through and then ask, “If I were in their position, what would I want/ need? How would I feel?”

Existing in this space where you again feel empowered and useful is so much better than the previous whiney self- centered persona you were entertaining. Being on both the giving and receiving end of this, I cannot express enough how important and constructive it is to practice empathy- in all situations.