Mary Mackenzie, Certified NVC Trainer:

Mary Mackenzie explains that empathizing with our closest loved ones can be difficult because they matter so deeply to us, past experiences might create emotional barriers, and we might fear losing ourselves in the process.

To grow our empathy skills, we must trust that we can care for both ourselves and others, practice empathy with people outside our inner circle, and ensure our emotional needs are met. Developing a consistent self-empathy practice and taking small steps—starting with receptive loved ones—can make the process easier. Holding ourselves with compassion and remembering why we value these relationships helps sustain our efforts. With practice, empathy for loved ones becomes more natural and transformative.

Keywords:

- Mary Mackenzie

- NVC fundamentals

- self empathy

- relationships