Using or developing compassion as a skill is not just valuable in a loving relationship, but in need to embrace as a skill to learn for every person in the World.
Compassion is the ability to sense and acknowledge the difficulties and suffering of others, and the ability to respond in a caring and supportive manner.
Compassion is different to empathy. Empathy is clinically only possible to deliver in a specific way. For training in empathy please reach out to us. Most people think they are being empathic, but they are actually using compassion, not empathy. Compassion provides another with the warmth of care in its delivery, whereas empathy can only be provided properly when in close proximity to another.
Compassion can be a way of living and being. Compassion can be used in all communication: texts, emails, cards, written notes, on a Facetime or Tel. call and in all conversations with your loving partner. It can also be given to others: at work, when ordering a coffee in a cafe, to a waiter in a restaurant, to a shop assistant or hairdresser, basically, to every person you interact with.
Someone who is compassionate will refrain from criticizing and blaming others, instead they will recognize the feelings of others. They will be kind and show concern and care for others, and especially their loving partner.
To develop compassion we need to be present and reside more in our body and heart, than being just cognitive or mind-based. Compassion is a valuable skill that can be developed, strengthened and refined with practice, just like any skill.
Compassionate individuals develop more harmonious interactions with others and deeper connections with friends and colleagues. They tend to have less stress and anxiety, as they will have closer relationships with others and more friends. Compassionate people usually treat themselves well or better, so actually have lower rates of anxiety and depression statistically.
To be truly compassionate we need to develop our presence, our experiential listening of others, and the way we treat ourselves. Compassionate people are warm and friendly by nature, but this can be developed.
Developing self-compassion is important. By treating yourself with warmth, kindness, understanding, and patience, just as you would a best friend, when you can give that to yourself, you will be able to give compassion to others.
To succeed with love we need to develop compassion at a high level. By cultivating compassion as a skill, you can improve your loving relationship, and develop a more caring and supportive community of friends and colleagues around you.
