Monthly Wellness Corner - September 2025

Empathy in the Workplace

As the world grows more polarized—especially in an election year—it’s no surprise that tensions can sometimes spill into the workplace. Disagreements and differing perspectives are natural, but how we respond to them makes all the difference. One of the most powerful ways we can maintain civility, courtesy, and compassion with our colleagues is through empathy.

Empathy isn’t about always agreeing with someone—it’s about listening, seeking to understand, and showing respect for their experiences. As executive coach Sarah Noll Wilson explains, “I don’t have to agree with you to be empathetic, just like I don’t have to agree with you to understand you.” In other words, empathy is less about judgment and more about connection.

The encouraging news is that empathy can be learned and strengthened, much like any other skill. Social psychologists and organizational leaders note that role-playing exercises, exposure to empathetic role models, and intentional daily practices all help people grow in their ability to empathize. And while some may worry that empathy makes leaders seem “soft” or like a pushover, research shows the opposite: empathy builds accountability, strengthens relationships, and fosters a healthier, more inclusive work culture.

Building Empathy at Work

So how do we put empathy into practice here at Penny Lane and beyond? Here are some key takeaways:

• Look within. Reflect on your own beliefs and habits. Are there outdated ideas or unintentional blind spots in how you interact with others? Do the spaces we create truly feel safe and welcoming for everyone? Real change starts with self-awareness.
• Practice active listening. Pay attention not just to what’s being said, but how it’s being said. Tone, body language, and pauses all carry meaning. Repeat back or paraphrase what you hear so others know they’ve been understood.
• Celebrate the small moments. Empathy shows up in everyday actions—checking in on a teammate’s wellbeing, acknowledging milestones, or offering flexibility when life happens. These small acts can have a huge impact on morale.
• Lead with compassion. Managers and team leads have a special role in setting the tone. Simple phrases like “Help me understand” or “Tell me more” can invite openness and trust. When leaders show empathy, employees are more engaged and collaborative.
• Balance empathy with accountability. Being empathetic doesn’t mean lowering standards—it means holding people to expectations while also considering their humanity and unique circumstances.

Why Empathy Matters

Empathy is more than just a “soft skill.” Studies show that empathetic workplaces see stronger collaboration, more innovative problem-solving, and higher overall performance. It paves the way for more productive relationships, better conflict resolution, and a culture where people feel seen, valued, and respected.

At its core, empathy is about stepping into someone else’s shoes without judgment. It’s about recognizing the unique lived experiences that shape the way each person shows up at work and in the world. When we choose empathy, we don’t just strengthen our teams—we strengthen our community.

As we continue our mission at Penny Lane, let’s make empathy a daily practice. Together, we can create a workplace where every voice is heard, every perspective is respected, and every person feels supported.

-Caryn May, Penny Lane Centers

🌱 Wellness Tip of the Month

Practicing Empathy at Work

Empathy helps us build stronger, kinder workplaces—especially during stressful times. Remember, empathy isn’t about agreeing with everyone; it’s about listening, understanding, and respecting each person’s unique perspective.

Here are 5 simple ways to practice empathy this month:

1. Pause & Listen – Give people your full attention when they speak.
2. Seek to Understand – Use open-ended questions like “Help me understand.”
3. Acknowledge Feelings – Reflect back what you hear to show you care.
4. Celebrate Small Wins – Recognize milestones, big or small.
5. Balance Kindness & Accountability – Show compassion while keeping standards clear.

✨ Empathy is contagious—when you model it, others are more likely to follow.

-Caryn May, Penny Lane Centers