Ever wonder why we’re so quick to label others as “enemies”? Practicing empathy for difficult people calms you down, reveals their humanity, boosts your EQ, and sparks creativity.
The story
Ever notice how quick we are to label others as “enemies”? That political rival, difficult family member, or challenging coworker becomes someone to defeat rather than understand.
Practicing empathy for these “enemies” has some surprising benefits:
1. It physically calms you down. Your brain shifts from fight-or-flight to a more rational state when you try to understand someone’s perspective.
2. You see their humanity. Behind frustrating behaviors are people with fears, hopes and complicated stories – not villains.
3. Your emotional intelligence grows. Leaders who develop empathy make better decisions and build more trust.
4. It sparks creativity. Stepping outside your perspective bubble helps you find new approaches to old problems.
This doesn’t mean accepting harmful behavior or abandoning your values. It’s about recognizing that labeling people as enemies only deepens our divides.
I found this approach in “A Practical EmPath: Rewire Your Mind,” which offers practical ways to develop empathy even in difficult relationships.
What relationship in your life might benefit from trying to understand the other person’s perspective, even briefly?
