Empathy

As men we sometimes don't do a very good job of expressing empathy. It's hardly our fault; we are not trained as young boys or men to express empathy. 

Sometimes our spouses remind us that we may seem brusque or insensitive to something they say or they are feeling. We may become defensive and say, "What did I do wrong?"

It's not that we did something wrong, it's just that we failed to acknowledge their feelings. It's easier to do than you think. Instead of saying, "What would you like me to do?" say something like, "I can see that is really bothering you." You can probably think of numerous other ways to respond expressing concern.

Empathy is simply the acknowledgment that we are aware of the other person's feelings. At work or at home it can go a long way toward improving relationships. Listen carefully for the next week for opportunities to express sympathy to someone else's concerns.