By When we are able to understand the emotions and perspectives of others, we are showing empathy. Read on to discover examples that demonstrate its practice in various contexts.
Seeing someone suffer after losing a loved one, imagining yourself going through the same experience and feeling what they are going through, is one of the examples of empathy. This value is the basis of every relationship, the ability to emotionally understand what others are experiencing and to understand things from their point of view.
In essence, an empathetic person puts himself in another person’s shoes, feels like them and thinks with his heart, although he does not always approve of such actions or decisions of others.
Being empathetic creates an environment of trust and openness, where the other person finds the security to express themselves. Beyond sympathy, the action of understanding someone without criticizing or judging is fundamental. And to achieve a deep understanding of the powerful meaning of this value, we exemplify it with several situations.
1. Recognize the worth of an elderly person
On weekends, you volunteer your time at a senior citizens’ club. One day, you sit down to chat with a woman who used to be a teacher. She tells you stories of her teaching years and how, after retiring, she misses being in contact with young people. Listening to her, you say, “It’s admirable how much you did for so many people. I’m sure you still have a lot to give. Everyone here values your presence.”
With this action, you recognize their worth and provide them with companionship and recognition.
2. Be a safe space for someone experiencing a loss
Your neighbor, Mr. Garcia, has just lost his wife after a long illness. You notice that he has been very quiet and absent at neighborhood meetings. For this reason, you approach him and, in a soft voice, you say, “I am so sorry about the loss of your wife. I know this must be a very difficult time for you. If you need to talk or do anything else, I am here to help you.”
By offering to accompany him to the supermarket or just sitting with him for a coffee and listening to him, allowing him to vent his pain, you provide him with a safe space with support in his grief .
3. Recognize the other’s feelings in the middle of an argument
In the midst of a heated argument , you realize that your words hurt your partner. You take a breath and then speak up: “I’m sorry if what I said made you feel bad, I didn’t mean to hurt you. I want to better understand how you feel so I can support you.”
This helps to calm the situation and open a space for mutual understanding. By showing empathy, you make it clear that you value their feelings and are willing to work together to resolve the conflict .
4. Celebrate the other’s achievement instead of feeling envious
Your partner gets a promotion at work, something she’s been looking forward to for a long time. Instead of feeling envious, you hug her and say, “I’m so proud of you. I know how hard you worked to get there, and I’m so happy to see you reach your goals.” Afterward, you organize a small celebration at home that complements your support and happiness for this milestone.
This gesture not only celebrates their success, but also strengthens the bond and shared happiness in the relationship.
5. Show humanity and calm in the face of what we cannot control
Ana, a recruiter for a major technology company, is awaiting the arrival of a promising candidate for a position in the Marketing department. Minutes before the interview, she receives a call from the candidate, who explains that he had a family emergency and will not be able to attend.
Hearing her distressed voice, he decides to remain calm and replies, “I’m sorry to hear about your emergency. I understand that these situations are unpredictable and stressful. Don’t worry about today’s interview. Is it okay if we reschedule it for a day and time that’s convenient for you?” Relieved, he thanks Ana for her understanding.
This response demonstrates that it is possible to humanize the selection process through empathy.
6. Validate the customer’s feelings during a complaint
Maria works in customer service at an electronics store. One day, she receives a call from Luis, who is very upset because the television he bought two weeks ago stopped working. He speaks in an irritated and raised tone, expressing his displeasure about the defective product.
Instead of responding defensively , the worker adopts a calm tone of voice. “I am very sorry about your negative experience with our product. I understand the discomfort. Please allow me to help you solve this problem. We will proceed with a technical review and, if necessary, we will offer you a replacement or full refund.”
Maria’s empathetic attitude calms Luis, making him feel listened to and supported by the company.
7. Practice active listening in times of sadness
Your friend Miguel has just broken up with his boyfriend, with whom he had a relationship of 5 years. You see him looking downcast and without spirit. You decide to invite him out for coffee and, when you noticed that sadness was invading him again, instead of saying a hollow phrase like “there are more fish in the sea”, you opt for something different.
“I’m sorry you’re going through this. I know breaking up with Paul must have been very painful. I’m here for you, tell me how you feel.” With these words, you’re not only validating their feelings , but you’re offering support during this difficult time.
8. Address a friend’s addiction without judgment or disapproval
A few weeks ago, you started noticing that your friend Fernando is drinking more than usual. He always has an excuse to have a drink, and every time you go out, he can’t seem to stop. One night, after a party, he confesses to you that he’s lost control over his alcohol consumption and doesn’t know what to do.
Instead of judging or disapproving, reach out and gently say, “Thank you for trusting me and sharing this. This must be really hard for you to talk about. I’m here to support you in whatever you need. You’re not alone.” Offer to go to a support group or talk to a professional for help. Also, commit to being there for them on their road to recovery .
Your encouraging attitude will give him the hope he needs to face his addiction.
9. Handle tantrums with understanding
One Saturday afternoon, you decide to take your daughter to the mall. Everything is going well until you pass by the toy store. She sees a doll that she loves and starts asking you to buy it for her. When you explain that they can’t take it home, your little girl starts crying and throwing a tantrum.
The situation immediately draws stares from other shoppers, and you feel a little embarrassed. Instead of getting angry or scolding her in public, you crouch down to her level, look her in the eye, and calmly say, “I understand that you want the doll and that you feel very sad because we can’t buy it right now. I know it’s hard to accept, but let’s put it on our wish list for your birthday or Children’s Day. Tell me what other things you like so I can remember them later?”
By responding like this, you acknowledge her feelings and give her a positive alternative, helping her handle her frustration in a constructive way.
10. Supporting a loved one after a discouraging medical diagnosis
A visit to the doctor turned your dad’s world upside down. He just found out he has cancer. He seems anxious and brooding, deeply affected by the news. After telling you, you agree to go with him to his next appointments and say, “Dad, we’re going to get through this together. If you need to talk or want company, I’m here.” Knowing he’s not alone in his worries will give him peace of mind.
Become part of their support network and help them stay optimistic about their illness.
11. Offer comfort and encouragement to a friend after an academic failure
The last day of the school year arrives, marking the end of a difficult period due to a subject in which the teacher was very demanding. Your friend Juan had a hard time keeping up and had ups and downs during the course. Even though he thought he did well on the final exam, he was surprised to see that his grade was lower than expected.
Your friend is upset because he studied so hard and still failed. You, on the other hand, got a good grade. Watching him go through this tough time reminds you what it feels like to fail. Don’t belittle his experience or lie to him about your own results, but tap his shoulder and say, “You worked hard and I understand your disappointment. Don’t give up! I’m sure you’ll do excellent on the exam. I’ll offer to explain the topics you don’t understand.”
12. Help a classmate who is struggling with a subject
Carla, the new student in the class, has serious difficulties with physics. During the break, you see her reading the book and solving the exercises without success. A lesson from your grandmother comes to mind: “Not everyone has the same abilities. What may be easy for you may be difficult for others. Never withhold your knowledge from those who need it .”
Before the bell rings, you approach Carla and say, “I understand that this subject is difficult and that you don’t like it. During the rest of the exam, we can study together so that you understand it better.” Over time, she becomes more confident with the subject and improves.
By being empathetic, we contribute to a more humane society
Professor Luis Moya Albiol was right when he said that the more empathetic a person is, the less likely they are to resort to violence to resolve conflicts. This idea applies to everyday life, where empathy is often set aside in favour of competitiveness or indifference in the face of heartbreaking situations such as migration, grief, poverty or discrimination.
By empathizing, one is more sensitive to what others need. According to a publication in the Journal of Patient Experience , this value allows individuals to share experiences, needs and desires and provides an emotional bridge that encourages prosocial behavior.
The examples of empathy presented here are an excellent tool to learn how to apply this value. And not only through specific actions, but also through phrases such as “this must be very difficult for you, can I give you a hug ?” Practice it to foster healthier relationships, promote peace and build a more humane and just society.