Self-awareness occurs as you better understand your own thoughts and feelings. You are then better able to understand thoughts and feelings of someone else. The more open we are to our own feelings, more skilled we become at reading someone else’s feelings, and generally less angry we feel toward them.

Acceptance, on other hand, is ability to see that others have a right to their “ridiculous” feelings. We must allow people to have feelings without telling them how they should feel. W cannot stop others from having feelings.

Empathic people understand that feelings are difficult to control. When we accept others as they are, it simply means that we understand that they are doing best they can at time. Remember, if they could do any better, they probably would.

Acceptance of others’ feelings is not easy when people act differently than we do. We all have difficulty with those who are different. By learning skill of empathy, we will be better able to understand ourselves and others.

Here are five simple rules to be more empathetic.

1.Pay attention to feelings that others express. Watch for both verbal and nonverbal clues. Try to understand message behind words and actions.

2.Place feelings of other’s ahead of your own. Put aside your own needs and ideas long enough to listen to another’s point of view.

3.Communicate your understanding. Respond or give answers to messages you receive to show you understand them.

4.Do not interrupt. Let speakers finish what they are saying before you talk.

5.Ask for more information. If you still don’t understand, ask more questions until you fully understand.

4. Visualize best possible outcome of an aspect of your life. Give it as much detail as you possibly can: color, texture, scent, temperature, touch, sound, and most especially wonderful, ecstatic, positive feelings associated with your beautiful picture. Then let go of your attachment to “how” it’s all supposed to work out, and let Divine take care of details. Meanwhile, you’re listening for gentle nudges of your intuition and bravely taking small steps every day on path to your heart’s desire.

5. Consciously focus on “Fun Factor.” Sometimes we get so wrapped up in “doing” it right, that we forget to “be” appreciative for all wonderful things that already exist in our lives. Your creative desires are a gift to be savored and explored, they hold a key to limitless possibilities. Invest some time seeking your joy and discovering it delightedly and unabashedly.

6. Do something pleasurable and nourishing for your physical body- do it mindfully, with awareness that you are deliberately appreciating and nurturing your wonderful self! Eat some healthy, delicious food; go for a brisk walk; or soak your feet in a bath of epsom salts and a few drops of a favorite essential oil.

Watch how power of gratitude works to create peace, beauty and joy in your life!