The Unending Power of Empathy
A few months ago on an episode of one of my favorite podcasts, the host was interviewing a well-known psychologist who also happens to be an elite performance coach. After some discussion about what, in their opinions, coaching is and isn’t, the host said, “I’ve got a real problem with these life coaches. If you’re gonna’ be pitching me on being my life coach, you better really have your shit sorted out - like a perfect life.”
Boy, did he miss the point.
Most of us come to a place where we decide to embrace a life committed to servant leadership as a coach or some other form of guide based on our own experiences. Those experiences are seldom ones most people would label “positive”. What those challenges reveal to us about ourselves, primarily in the way we choose to face and move past them, is often what motivates us to assist others.
What these experiences provide is perspective, learning, growth, and most of all empathy. It’s that last piece that’s the most important to develop when wanting to serve others.
Though we can learn about life’s challenges and how to assist others through a textbook, it’s walking through the fire of our own experience that ignites the passion within. It’s that passion that allows us to stay committed to the demanding yet rewarding path that frequently comes with it.
And this isn’t only for those that choose the “spiritual path”.
Some of the most talented and passionate people I’ve met across a wide spectrum of professions got there through earlier challenges that taught them to empathize with those they serve - financial advisors who had suffered massive financial insecurity, lawyers who experienced injustice in their communities growing up, doctors who saw close relatives pass away because of inadequate medical care.
The domain of the soul-centered business is not exclusive to healers and artists. There are so many that are seeking to serve in their own ways.
How have your challenges developed the empathy in you that gives you the desire to help others?
Chaz Thorne, Partner/Producer - Soul Tribe
