<p>Empathy is a special skill that lets you understand others. Empathy can help you strengthen your friendships and your family bonds. Even if you aren't always empathetic, you can learn empathy. Read on to learn how!</p><h4>What Is Empathy?</h4><p>Empathy is the ability to put yourself in someone else's shoes and understand what they're feeling. You have to understand their situation and why they're feeling a certain way. You can feel empathy even if you haven't been in the same situation as someone else.</p><p>For example, Jenna's friend Robbie is sad because his dog is missing. Even though Jenna has never lost her dog, she feels empathy for Robbie. She can understand why he would be so upset.</p><h4>Why Does Empathy Matter?</h4><p>Empathy is important for your relationships with others. If you can't understand what your friends or family members are going through, you may be insensitive.&nbsp;</p><p>For example, Javier is sad because his best friend moved away. His sister, Marisol, makes a joke about his friend because she's not empathetic. Now Javier feels even worse.</p><p>If Marisol felt empathy, she would realize that her brother is upset. She could comfort him instead of hurting his feelings.</p><p>You can also avoid a lot of fights. If you can understand why someone is acting sad or grumpy, you may be less likely to get angry with them.</p><h4>How Can I Show Empathy?</h4><p>Sometimes it can be difficult to be empathetic, especially if someone's problem doesn't seem that important to you. One of the best things you can do is listen if your loved one is willing to talk. Listening lets them know that you think their problems are important.</p><p>Next, try to put yourself in the situation. Imagine how you would feel. Use that feeling to guide how you treat your friend. Think about how you'd want to be treated if you had that same problem.&nbsp;</p><p>Never tell someone that their problem is no big deal. Instead, acknowledge why they are upset and ask if there's any way you can help.</p>