Practicing empathy takes ________.

What is your answer?

I've researched, practice, coached, and struggled over empathy for MANY years and will compassionately continue to do so. While I know there are many ways of practicing empathy, I believe there is a common truth amongst those people that continuously evolve their empathy practice. Yes, they have energy. Yes, they have love for others and might even view the world in a positive light. I believe it takes courage to practice empathy. It's an act that is sometimes counter to self preservation. It puts the ego in check, especially if you are practicing me-empathy / self-empathy, and doesn't guarantee immediate gratification. In an age where personal comfort is demanded, empathetic curiosity challenges comfort. Empathy takes courage. Empathy is a fight for us. As Jamil Zaki's book reads, empathy is a War for Kindness. Those that take up empathetic arms are courageous warriors for community and collective well being.

Again, what would you say practicing empathy takes? This post was original to LinkedIn and here are some of the great answers we’ve received so far.

Answers from LinkedIn - drop your answers there and join in the conversation!