Empathy or the art of connecting to someone else feelings.
Listen to understand, not to respond!
We usually listen to our interlocutor to know when we could take part in the conversation, respond, and contribute with our point of view. Often, we are ready to jump in and say something, even if it means cutting the person off.
But can we really understand or connect to the other person if we are focused on what we are going to answer?
It is common to meet people who do not really listen to us. How many times have you wondered what the person you were talking to might have retained about you?
Understanding and connecting to others begins with listening to them carefully. Give them time to say everything before responding.
To be empathetic is sometimes also just to listen without answering.