Empathy within organizations needs to gain ground this year

In recent years, I have been reflecting a lot on the role of empathy in the organizational environment. After all, it has become essential within companies.

In an increasingly fast-paced and competitive world, it seems to me that we often forget that behind every result, every indicator and every goal, there are people — human beings with feelings, dreams and personal challenges.

And that is exactly why I believe that 2025 needs to be the year in which empathy gains a central place within organizations.

Why is empathy so important in organizations?

Empathy is the ability to put yourself in someone else's shoes, understand their perspectives and act in a way that respects those experiences.

In the workplace, this skill goes far beyond a kind attitude; it is a powerful tool for improving collaboration, strengthening interpersonal relationships and creating a more inclusive and productive environment.

That is why working in a place where we are heard and understood is not only motivating, but also essential for mental health.

When leaders and coworkers adopt an empathetic stance, everyone feels more comfortable sharing ideas, asking for help, and facing challenges with more confidence.

How to practice empathy in your day-to-day corporate life

Although empathy may seem abstract, there are many ways to put it into practice. One of them is to truly listen.

Have you ever stopped to think that in our day-to-day lives we are so focused on our tasks that we forget to listen to what others have to say? That's why I like to set aside time to listen, without interruptions.

Another point that I think is important is to try to understand the context before drawing conclusions about someone's behavior or performance. Questions like "How are you?" or "Is there anything I can do to help?" make all the difference.

And speaking of differences, it is necessary to recognize them. After all, each person has a unique story and faces different challenges. Therefore, respecting these differences is essential to creating a harmonious environment.

Benefits of an empathetic organizational culture

Companies that value empathy reap rewards in several areas. Satisfied and valued employees tend to be more engaged, productive, and loyal to the organization. In addition, an empathetic environment attracts talent and improves the company's reputation in the market.

Another important point is that empathy also drives innovation. When people feel comfortable expressing their ideas without fear of judgment, they contribute creative and effective solutions to the company's problems.

My commitment to empathy

In view of what I said in this article, this year I commit to making empathy an even more present pillar within SEDA College and all the startups I participate in.

And I'll go further, I invite you to reflect on how empathy can transform the organizational environment in which you work. Let's make 2025 a more human, collaborative, and empathetic year together?