What does it mean to be empathetic?

Just listen.

This isn’t the time to jump in with your story. It is time to just listen and be there for the other person.

Acknowledge.

“I’m sorry you are going through this.”
“Wow, that really sucks.”
“I hate that this happened.”
“That must be hard.”
“That sounds really challenging.”
“I can see how that would be difficult.”

What are you feeling?

“Wow. I don’t know what to say.”
“I can’t imagine what you must be going through.”
“I wish I could make it better.”
“My heart hurts for you.”
“It makes me really sad to hear this happened.”

Create a safe place.

“Thank you for sharing with me.”
“I’m glad you told me.”
“Thank you for trusting me with this. That really means a lot.”
“This must be hard to talk about. Thanks for opening up to me.”

Hold space for them.

“How are you feeling about everything?”
“What has this been like for you?”
“I want to make sure I understand…”
“What I’m hearing is that you are feeling ____. Is that right?”
“Is there anything else you want to share?”

How would you feel if…?

“Wow. I don’t even know what to say.”
“That sucks! I hate you have to go through this.”
“I can’t imagine how you must feel.”
“Thanks for sharing and trusting me. I’m here for you.”

Encourage.

“You are brave / strong / talented.”
“You matter.”
“You are a warrior.”
“I’m in your corner.”
“I love you.”
“I’m proud of you.”

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Show them love.

“I’m here for you.”
“How can I help you?”
“What do you need right now?”
“I’m happy to listen any time.”
“I would like to do _____ for you.”

Don’t ask what you can do to help. Just do something.

H/T Laura Click

What do you think?