As you develop your emotional intelligence and prioritize connection through empathy, it may be helpful to learn the 3 types of empathy:
Cognitive—this is the ability to understand how a person feels and what they might be thinking. If we have been where they are, cognitive empathy can help us to respond better, but again, there is no “right” thing to say. It’s only important that you say something compassionate.
Emotional—this is the sensation of when you physically feel the pain of the other person. You experience this response when you watch a movie, read a book, or watch the news are brought to tears. Unfortunately, in real life, we do not always respond in the same manner. Developing this skill helps you to grow a deeper connection with the person sharing with you.
Compassionate—this type of empathy follows cognitive or emotional, as it moves you to act. This is not the sympathetic “fix it” action but finding meaningful ways that are helpful to the person you are empathizing with. You can begin by asking them what would be helpful to them, as what we think may be helpful may be to them.