Compassion is a social feeling that motivates people to go out of their way to relieve the physical, mental, or emotional pains of others and themselves. It is a feeling that arises when you are confronted with anothers suffering and feel motivated to relieve that suffering. Compassion is not the same as empathy or altruism, though the concepts are related. While empathy refers more generally to our ability to take the perspective of and feel the emotions of another person, compassion is when those feelings and thoughts include the desire to help. The meaning of compassion is to recognize the suffering of others and then take action to help. Compassion is simply a kind, friendly presence in the face of what’s difficult.
Some key aspects of compassion include:
- Sensitivity to the emotional aspects of the suffering of others: Compassion is characterized by a sense of concern that arises in us in the face of someone who is in need or someone who is in pain.
- Desire to alleviate suffering: Compassion is accompanied by a kind of wishing (i.e. desire) to see the relief or end of that situation and wanting (i.e. motivation) to do something about it.
- Altruism: Altruism is the kind, selfless behavior often prompted by feelings of compassion, though one can feel compassion without acting on it, and altruism isn’t always motivated by compassion.
Compassion is important because it helps us connect with others, mend relationships, and move forward while fostering emotional intelligence and well-being. It is also associated with a range of positive outcomes, including increased well-being, reduced stress, and improved relationships.
