Empathy Test
Seeing others happy brings me genuine joy.
It bothers me when people face obstacles in achieving their dreams.
I'm always ready to listen when friends need to talk about their troubles.
My heart goes out to those who've faced more than their share of bad luck.
Other people's emotions matter deeply to me.
Sometimes my attention drifts when others are speaking to me.
I can sense when someone around me is feeling down.
I feel for people who've experienced tough circumstances.
I get frustrated when a friend starts crying.
When others feel awkward, I tend to feel awkward too.
It hurts to watch people being mocked or put down.
I don't really get why happy events make some people weep.
I stand up for those who aren't being treated right.
I can easily imagine myself in another person's situation.
Sad stories or thoughts often bring me close to tears.
I take my time with people who have questions, no matter how many they ask.
Witnessing bullying makes me feel upset and concerned.
When I read novels, I connect deeply with what the characters are going through.
It upsets me to see someone treated unjustly.
Before offering advice, I consider how my words might affect the other person.
20 questions remaining
What you should know
- You can learn from people who are different from you. This could be a chance for you to grow and learn to be more open to seeing things from other people's points of view. This can help you become more empathetic.
- You know that rushing to help others isn't always a good idea, but showing up for a friend every now and then can be very helpful. Helping others is also good for your health. It makes you happier by releasing neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin.
- Being able to think about how other people feel could lead to a lot of good things in your life, like better mental and physical health. For instance, doing this can help with stress, depression, and anxiety.
- You say No a lot, and you set rules and limits to keep yourself safe. But spending a little time with someone can help you meet new people, grow as a person, and find new opportunities.
- You don't usually help other people, but you might benefit from doing volunteer and charity work. People find meaning in life through these helpful actions; when you help someone, you make a difference in their life.
Do Something Now
Read fiction. Books can help you picture what a character is going through and maybe even what they are thinking and feeling.
Meditate: This can change the wiring in your brain that is linked to compassion. Empathy and compassion are not the same thing, but they are related and work well together.
Talk to a therapist. A mental health professional can help you think about whether and why you have certain problems when you interact with other people.
