EXHIBITING EMPATHY
What if you’re an Instigator husband who has miffed his Empathizer wife by neglecting her wants and wishes? In the TALK2ME© system, Instigators win big when they adopt the Empathy Factor, which is so prevalent among Empathizer communicators. How do you respond in a nurturing way, even when there isn’t much time to do so?
USE THE EMPATHY FACTOR TO PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR PARTNER
Empathy is defined as identification with and understanding of another’s situation, feelings, and motives. If you have been there, done that, then you can be empathetic. To convey your empathy to your conversation partner:
- Be quiet in your mind – don’t allow your mind to spin a million miles an hour
- Do unto others, as you would like others to do unto you
- Pay attention to what you’re seeing and hearing
- Respond – walk in the shoes of your partner
- Demonstrate empathy to others
- Show you care
- Don’t worry
- Listen more
THE EMPATHY GOLDEN RULE
No, the Empathy Golden Rule isn’t, “He who has the gold, rules.” What is the impact of empathizing with an Empathizer spouse? “It makes me feel special and appreciated when you help out on little things.”
The relationship results? Happiness. Thankfulness. Time savings. Laughter. Deep appreciation…all well-worth the effort of a tiny little, “I understand.”
“Talk Doc” Dennis O’Grady provides relationship help, family business consulting, and TALK2ME© positive and effective communication training for teams.