We all want to be understood by others. Yet, we do not always make a conscious effort to understand others. This article talks about the importance and urgency of understanding in our lives.

Expecting to be understood

You cannot expect everyone to understand you. There will always be tension, confusion, and misinterpretations. The moment you start communicating or living with a different person, it is bound that you will, at some point, disagree with something. One may not tell it or show it, but the disagreement is there.

Having different opinions and perspectives is completely logical. The weird thing would be to have identical personalities and ways of thinking. Even if you find your so-called “soulmate”, you cannot expect the other to always think exactly the way you think.

After all, on a broader picture, each individual has lived a unique life that has determined their personality. We may have done a few things the same way, but we did not do them at the same time, intensity, frequency, or the same stage in our lives. 

The magic of empathy

You cannot force someone to understand you, but you can choose to understand the other. It is not an easy process, but it is straightforward enough. All it takes is some willingness and effort from your side.

One of the most important elements of a conscious process to understand the other is empathy. You try to put yourself into their shoes and see how you would feel and react if you were at their place.

When you try to empathize, there are plenty of unknown parameters to you, such as events that have shaped the other’s life. However, you can use your sense and perception to fill the gaps. See the other for what they are and avoid making assumptions. Active listening can play a key role here. 

The benefits of understanding

Apart from more meaningful relationships, understanding and empathy can help you be grateful for what you are and have. By putting yourself into the shoes of less fortunate or less privileged people, you start to understand how lucky and blessed you are. 

On the other hand, if you compare yourself with relatively successful and joyful people, you can choose to see them as a source of inspiration for your own life. You can then use that motivation to improve your life and the life of those around you. 

All in all, if interactions with other people are part of your life, it makes sense to make an effort to understand them. Not only will you improve your connections and relationship, but you will also enhance your own life.

Takeaway:

• Each individual has lived a unique life that has determined their personality and perception.
• You cannot force someone to understand you, but you can choose to understand the other. 
• Apart from more meaningful relationships, understanding and empathy can help you be grateful for what you are and have.