What We Talk About When We Talk About Compassion
What We Talk About When We Talk About Compassion
When we talk about compassion, we’re not talking about something soft or sentimental. We’re talking about a powerful human intention—one that shapes our relationships, our work, our communities, and ultimately, the world.
There are many definitions for compassion, some simple and some more complex, but this one is my favorite. It is profound in its simplicity. In a 2022 article, Harvard Business Review defined compassion simply as “the intention to be of benefit to others.” This definition is refreshingly clear. It removes the fluff. Compassion, at its core, is not about grand gestures or perfect outcomes—it’s about a desire to help. It starts with a mindset, a way of seeing others with openness, empathy, and the willingness to act on their behalf.
Let’s explore what we really mean when we talk about compassion—and why, especially in today’s world, we need more of it in life, work, and leadership.
Compassion Isn’t Pity. It’s Connection.
Compassion is often confused with pity or sympathy. But compassion goes deeper. While pity sees someone as “less than,” compassion sees someone as fully human. While sympathy stays on the sidelines, compassion leans in. And while empathy lets us feel with others, compassion takes us one step further—it invites us to act.
Think about it this way:
Empathy says, “I feel your pain.”
Compassion says, “I feel your pain, and I want to help.”
It’s important to remember this doesn’t always mean fixing someone’s situation or offering advice. Sometimes it just means showing up, listening, or being kind in a moment when it would be easier to look away.
