Empathy vs. Sympathy: Choosing to Connect

When someone in your life makes the brave decision of being emotionally vulnerable with you, you can either choose to join them or choose to keep them at a distance. This RSA short film features Brené Brown, one of the foremost researchers on shame and emotional vulnerability. Ms. Brown describes the difference between being empathetic, which requires us to feel with another, and sympathetic, which permits us to remain detached emotionally. Self-preservation is an important skill and we can't be emotionally vulnerable in all situations. This film helps us be more mindful of our choice.