Do you always see things from the other person's point of view?

Question

I find it very difficult especially when we're fussing or angry or tired...etc.

What are some good pointers for learning how to do it?

Answer 1

I usually use the information that I know about the person, their background, upbringing and life experiences to try to imagine how they would interpret the situation at hand. I try to imagine that I am that person and how I would see things if everything that had happened to them had happened to me, and none of the stuff that happened to me had. It is sometimes difficult. But it can greatly improve your understanding of other people. Sometimes even understanding why people do what they do doesn't make you agree with them, it just lets you understand the basis of the disagreement. But How to do it?

1st- calm down and remember that they are not you.
2nd-make a mental list of their characteristics, age, gender, race. Think how the differences and similarities might change the way they see things.
3rd-Think about their background. religion, family, education, region of origin. any cultural influence on how they see the world around them.
4th-Think about their specific life experiences as much as you know. Imagine how major events in their life might prejudice them toward or against certain things.
As an example: a person who's little brother was mauled by a dog might never want to own a dog.
5th-when you don't know, ask questions and stay calm. You learn more that way.

Hopefully I've been of some help.

Answer 2

I give myself time to think on what made me angy...instead of reacting go to another room and think on it.....reversethe situation and see how it would make you feel....if you still don't see a problem....sit and have a talk and ask why is it that they feel that way......
I think that by not reacting quick and bickering about things right off I take time to think about it....even if its just a half hour or something..having time to think about it usually helps

Answer 3

Sometimes,depends on how many beers you've had. lol