Tried improving empathy with my wife only to hear “Are you doing that empathy thing again?” Chapter 2 reveals the awkward reality of this learning curve nobody talks about.
The story
Ever tried learning a skill and ended up worse than when you started? That’s what happened when I first practiced empathy with my wife.
I’d carefully reflect her feelings [following the techniques I’d learned] and she’d give me that look. “Are you doing that empathy thing again?” with an eye roll.
Ouch. But she nailed it. My early attempts were robotic and forced.
In Chapter 2 of “A Practical EmPath,” I get real about this learning curve. The surprise wasn’t mastering techniques – it was navigating the relationship friction that popped up during practice.
When you start working on empathy while your partner doesn’t, things get uncomfortable. You might feel frustrated that you’re doing all the emotional work. They might feel like they’re suddenly living with a wannabe therapist instead of their spouse.
I’ve seen so many people quit because they expected instant results. That’s not how growth works.
Chapter 2 addresses these awkward realities because I wish someone had warned me. Understanding these challenges doesn’t just prepare you – it helps you realize everyone struggles through this phase.
The most valuable skills often feel the most uncomfortable to learn. Practical empathy is worth the temporary awkwardness, but only if you know what’s coming.
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