Empathy versus Pride

14 April 2009 By yewkiin 1 In Our 4 values

Recently I have been seeking a balance between empathy and pride.

Pride was the latest additon to my values, reminding myself to set the highest standards in whatever I am doing, and because I withhold I standards in my life, sometimes doing so raises my expectations on people around me, especially when I know and feel that they can live the highest standards of their lives.

Empathy on the other hand, requires me to sit and stand in other people’s shoes, and understand how they feel and think, even though we may not have to agree with them necessarily.

When empathy meets pride, this is where I am seeking balance. How can I demand the highest standards from the people around me (when they have low expectations of themselves) and yet empathize with them? It is sometimes tiring to empathize all the time, as we need to practise tact in communication. And for people with low awareness and standards, sometimes being direct in communication is the best way, yet because of empathy, we are afraid that directness will cause too much hurt.

Meet my friends, Pride and Empathy.

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One Comment on "Empathy versus Pride"

  1. Invisible Force
    16/04/2009 at 12:44 pm Permalink

    Interesting provocative thoughts! My 2 cents is,” When the intention is clear, just do what we think its useful and good! Leave the receiving part to the receiver… :) ”

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