Practicing genuine empathy is a great and natural way to create a bond with those around you. Whether it’s your spouse, children, friend, co-worker or even a complete stranger for whom you want to make a difference, empathy is a powerful way to connect and help them feel heard, understood and better see that they are not alone in whatever they may be facing in their lives. But, how do you know if you’re actually showing empathy?

Heres’s How to Practice Empathy

1) Be present with them in the conversation rather than multi-tasking or thinking of other things while they’re talking.

2) Don’t be judgmental. Each of us has the inherent human right to make choices for their lives.

3) Engage with the person who is speaking. Pay attention not only to the words they’re using, but other forms of communication, such as facial expressions, tone of voice, body language, et.

4) Be patient and quiet as you are listening. Letting the other person know spending time with them is worthy of your time helps them to be more open and at ease.

5) Ask questions, if needed, for any clarification about what they’re sharing to better help you (and them) know you understand what they are opening up about to you.

It is very common and easy for people to be focused primarily on themselves, even when someone else is sharing and needing a listening ear. Practicing empathy helps us step outside ourselves and become more present to those we love.

It also is a genuine way to connect with people. In our digital connection age, we are more disconnected than ever. Empathy is a skill that can be learned and practiced and can enrich your life and those around you.