Empathy is always defined as the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts and experience of another of either the past or present without having the feelings, thoughts and experience fully communicated in an objectively explicit manner. It is a great factor helping improve a deep level of intimacy in a relationship. However, in many relaitonships, couple's just ignor or hardly arouse their empathy to manage their relationships. The following two couple's examples are listed to exmplain how empathy matters to a relationship.
Worn Down - Emily & Ken
Emily works two part-time jobs from home and in between she is responsible for taking the lead on raising three kids. Ken works long office days of ten to twelve stressful hours. When Ken gets home from work, he's tired, and just wants to rest.
Emily worked several hours on her jobs, and all morning while taking care of three children, and is tired as well. Emily asks Ken to watch the kids while she lies down but an argument ensues.
Bar None - Andrea & Phil
Andrea grew up in a home of alcoholics, and rarely drank alcohol herself. She vehemently are not like to go to bars because of her family history as well as the cigarette smoke and loud noise. Phil, her husband, loved to take Andrea out of the town. Frequently after a movie, show, or dinner, Phil would end up taking Andrea to a bar. Andrea would start to get quiet and withdraw from conversation.
“PhiI,you know I don't like bars. Why do you always insist ongoing out for a drink at a bar every time we go out?”
“Andreat what's the big deal? People hang out in bars all the time. I don't get why you get so upset about going to a bar? It’s not like your family. You didn’t drink.”
Secret: Empathize with your partner, and you will begin to create a deeper level of intimacy.
In a world that people spends much time picking at flaws and igniting fear and anger in people,especially in relationships, empathy can be a balm to that fear and anger. Empathy means you to exchange your position by putting yourself in others' shoes and be aware of and sensitive to others' feeling to help them.
When two people can empathize with each other, they form a deep connection and bond of trust. Additionally, it allows people to practice patience and a non-judgmental mindset.
Meanwhile, you should be aware not to be overly emphathetic in a detrimental way. Overly empathetic behavior may occur if you always put your partner's needs above your own (even if you're ill or need assistance) or if you avoid tough conversations so as not to upset your partner. Such kind of overly empathetic behaviors could lead to resentment, dissatisfaction, physical and emotional stress.
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