Empaths, empathy, empathetic.

These concepts seem to be all the rage these days.

But what is empathy?

What does it mean? Where do we get it wrong? And how do we practice it wholeheartedly?

In our day-to-day lives, we have opportunity after opportunity to show up empathetically for the people around us.

But often, we fail—or we confuse empathy with something else entirely.

In this endearing and enlightening video, Brené Brown explains the difference between genuine empathy and not-so-genuine sympathy.

It may not seem like an important distinction, but it makes all the difference in whether we can support our loved ones with authenticity and unconditional compassion.

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“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.” ~ Brené Brown