Examples of empathy: 45+ Examples with empathy statements

In our previous post on empathy signs and how to develop them, we saw how important empathy is for our relationship. We also saw the ways we can develop it where it is lacking. So in this article, we are going to see examples of empathy and 40+ examples of empathy statements. This will help us identify it in our daily lives and know when to apply it.

But firstly we are going to look at the definition of empathy once again;

What is empathy

Empathy can simply be described as the capacity or ability to understand one’s feelings and emotions. Understanding these feelings and emotions will enable us to make the right decision and judgment on the prevailing circumstances.

Examples of empathy

So we are going to be looking at some examples of empathy that could be found amongst high school students, kids, families, customer relationships, and in our workplaces.

Example of empathy among high school students

#1. A friend fails an exam

Imagine you are a student and a friend in your class has just failed an exam. Your friend is sad because she studied hard and still failed. Although you got a good grade on this test, you understand what it feels like to fail. You don’t try to fix things for your friend. Instead, you make a statement like, “I’m so, so sorry about your grade. I know how hard you studied, you must feel so disappointed like now.”

#2. A Student Gets Bullied

Imagine after school one day, you saw a student being teased and mocked by classmates. How do you demonstrate empathy? First, you remember what it is like to be picked on. You may wait until the bullies have left and go and console the student. You can still show empathy by going to report the bullies to the teacher or other higher authorities.

Examples of empathy among kids

#1. An excited kid

Have you ever been with a friend who just got a new dress and she’s so excited about it and you get super excited too? If you are feeling excited because you know how happy it can feel to get a new dress (even though you didn’t get a dress and you won’t wear the dress either)… that’s empathy. Being excited with your friend is a kind of empathy.

#2. An unhappy friend

Have you ever thought a game was really fun but your friend felt it wasn’t fair? If you saw your friend was bothered by the game and understood she wasn’t having a good time even though you were… that’s empathy. You showed empathy by understanding how things felt from her side of the situation.

Examples of empathy in the workplace

#1. Overwhelmed Colleague

Your colleague has tons of work to attend to. You don’t do the same kind of work, and there’s no way for you to offer practical help. Still, you know what it’s like not to be able to finish the day’s work schedule and you feel really bad for your colleague. But, you show empathy by stopping by his/her desk with some coffee and snacks for him, along with a few encouraging words.

#2.Employee having a bad day

You run a small restaurant. One hot afternoon, a man comes in and is irate with your employee because he feels your employee is to attending to him appropriately. You help him get what he needs and be on his way. looking at your employee, your heart sinks. She is trying not to cry. Your empathetic response is should be, “I’m so sorry that happened. Being yelled at is awful. Take some time off if you need it.”

Empathy examples for a friend

#1.Friend Enduring a Break-Up

This is a good example of a show of empathy in social life. Probably you never approved of the relationship, possibly because you didn’t like the boyfriend. She comes to you, hurt. the best way to show empathy here is by reserving judgment. You set aside your feelings first and focus on her feelings instead. You console her and give her words of encouragement while listening to her.

#2. An ill spouse

Getting home from work, you discover that your spouse has been ill. There are several household chores that need to be done. The kids have an appointment that needs to be attended to and you’re traveling for business at the end of the week. However, you set aside your personal concerns about the responsibilities and instead try to find a way of making her feel better. You could add some words of encouragement, but real empathy shows in your actions.

Examples for animals

People can show empathy to other species too. Imagine your beloved dog is dying. You try to keep her happy and comfortable for as long as possible, but a day comes when she is in too much pain to enjoy her life. You take her to the vet and have her put to sleep. This is a choice made out of empathy.

Read Also: Signs of lack of empathy: 25 things to note.

Empathy statements 

Empathy statements simply mean using words to show your capacity to understand people’s feelings and emotions. It could be expressed in speech or through writing. These words when used usually give warmth to the receiver. It can also enhance one’s morale and bring about a positive response.

These statements can be used at work to enhance employer-employee relationships. It can also be used to boost customer relationships which can in turn yield benefits.

Empathy statements for friends

you should know how to relate to your friends. you should know how to show support and care when they are going through difficult times. You listen to them and know when to drop some of these examples of empathy statements:

1. Hope you are ok?
2. How did you go about it?
3. Let me know if can be of help.
4. I’m sorry you’ve had to deal with this…
5. “I’ve had to deal with this recently”
6. You are right
7. I appreciate your efforts.
8. I’m like that as well

Empathy statements for customer service relationships

UCLA neurologist and neuroscientist Marco Lacoboni explained in his book, Mirroring People, that we shouldn’t always try to understand people based on their behavior. Instead, we can relate to one another by putting ourselves in other people’s shoes. In other words, all you need to do is remind yourself that you know what the customer is going through to put yourself in their shoes. Every customer service agent is also a customer, after all.

Also, according to Software Advice, a tech firm that reviews live chat software, 65% of customers prefer speaking in a casual to formal tone. Customers want to know and feel that agents are people just like them. So try speaking to customers in the tone that you would like to be spoken to. Try to communicate casually.

The following examples of empathy statements will connect you to and reassure your customer:

Empathy statements for romantic partners/family

Showing empathy is important in romantic relationships. sharing emotions and feelings in good and bad times helps to create a strong bond. Some are words of encouragement, and some are simply ways to show you share a common perspective. Use this inspirational examples empathy words list to express your feelings:

1. It sounds like you did everything you could.
2. I can see how difficult this has been.
3. The whole thing sounds so discouraging.
4. I can totally see why you would be embarrassed.
5. This is so difficult.
6. I can’t believe how well you’re holding up, considering how much stress you’re under.
7. What a day you’ve had.
8. I hear what you’re saying.
9. It’s totally natural that you would feel this way.
10. Things are tough right now, but I’m here.
11. I understand how hard this is for you.
12. What you’re saying makes so much sense to me.
13. I wish I had been there with you when that happened.
14. That must have hurt your feelings.
15. I hear what you’re saying.
16. I would have a hard time with that too.
17. It makes me so mad just hearing about it.

Empathy statements for students

These statements can be used whether you are a teacher talking to a student, a student talking to a teacher, or talking to a fellow student. You must create a bond and a good relationship by showing empathy. Also, try to view other people’s perspectives and know what that person must be feeling. Then, you can use any of these empathy statements:

Empathy statements for workplace

Encouraging a coworker or team member who is having a bad day or dealing with a difficult situation is part of being a good leader. Hence, these examples of empathy statements will help you make sure you communicate your empathy effectively

1. I know you’ve put so much time and effort into this, and it has to be frustrating to see the project shut down.
2. Uncertainty is really hard.
3. That has to be confusing and discouraging.
4. If that happened to me, I would feel upset too.
5. Times of change are hard, and it’s totally normal that you’re feeling anxious about this.
6. I would be upset if someone talked to me that way too.
7. I can hear your concern in your voice.
8. You must feel like no one even listened to your idea.
9. I know it isn’t easy to deal with stuff like this, but you are handling it so well.
10. It’s been a difficult couple of weeks, hasn’t it?

However, sometimes you might see yourself feeling unempathetic, but remember that every person you interact with is unique and important. Use these empathy examples and phrases next time you feel uninspired, and notice how much easier it is to engage with empathetic words.

Can you train yourself to become more empathetic?

Yes, it’s possible to train yourself to become more empathetic. This can be achieved through practicing active listening, putting yourself in other people’s shoes, and learning about different perspectives and cultures.

How can empathy improve relationships?

Empathy can improve relationships by allowing individuals to understand and connect with each other on a deeper level. When you are able to understand and share in another person’s emotions and experiences, it helps to build trust, foster communication, and strengthen bonds.

Is empathy a trait or a skill?

Empathy can be considered both a trait and a skill. While some people may be naturally inclined to be more empathetic, empathy can also be developed and honed through practice and effort.

Can empathy be harmful?

Yes, empathy can be harmful if it leads to over-identification with others, such as becoming overwhelmed by their emotions, or if it results in neglecting one’s own needs and boundaries. It’s important to strike a balance between understanding and compassion for others and taking care of oneself.

Can you have too much empathy?

Yes, it’s possible to have too much empathy, also known as empathetic overarousal. This can result in feeling overwhelmed by other people’s emotions, burnout, and even physical symptoms such as headaches or fatigue.

Can empathy be taught in the classroom?

Yes, empathy can be taught in the classroom through various methods such as role-playing exercises, discussions, and activities that promote understanding and respect for others. By teaching empathy at a young age, students can develop important skills that will benefit them in all areas of their lives.

examples of empathy FAQs

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