What does it mean to have a higher degree of empathy than most people? It means you have an exceptional ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

Having a heightened sense of empathy can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword, but it’s truly a gift. It allows you to connect deeply with others and navigate social situations with grace.

Whether you’re already aware of your heightened empathy or you’re just beginning to suspect it, there are certain signs that can confirm it.

Here are 9 signs that might indicate you possess a greater level of empathy than most people. Let’s dive right in!

1) You feel others’ emotions as if they were your own

Ever walked into a room and immediately sensed the mood? Perhaps you’ve met a friend for coffee and, despite their smiles, you just knew something was off?

This ability to tune into other people’s emotions is a strong sign of heightened empathy. You’re not just understanding their feelings intellectually; you’re experiencing them viscerally.

But remember, while it’s wonderful to connect with others on such a deep level, it’s also crucial to look after your own emotional well-being. High empathy can sometimes lead to emotional overload, so learning to manage it is key.

2) You’re often told you’re a great listener

Here’s a personal example. My friends have always said that I’m their go-to person when they need to vent or seek advice. They tell me how I make them feel heard and understood, like I’m genuinely interested in their thoughts and feelings.

This is another sign of heightened empathy – being a good listener. You don’t just hear the words someone is saying; you understand the emotions behind those words. You give your full attention, providing comfort and understanding even when no solutions are offered.

3) You’re exceptionally good at reading non-verbal cues

Body language, facial expressions, tone of voice – these non-verbal signals carry a wealth of information about what someone is truly feeling. In fact, studies show that non-verbal communication makes up more than half of our overall message.

If you have a heightened level of empathy, chances are you’re naturally skilled at picking up and interpreting these subtle cues. You notice the furrowed brow, the feet pointed towards the door, the slight change in pitch, and you understand what these signals are communicating.

However, it’s also important to remember that your interpretations may not always be accurate – after all, we’re all human and subject to misinterpretation.

4) You often feel overwhelmed in crowded places

Have you ever walked into a busy shopping mall, concert, or party and felt instantly overwhelmed? This could be a sign of heightened empathy.

When you’re highly empathetic, you’re not just picking up on the emotions of one person, but potentially dozens or even hundreds of people at once. You might feel a rush of joy, anxiety, excitement, and frustration all at once – simply because you’re surrounded by so many people experiencing these emotions.

This is why crowded places can feel overwhelming. It’s like being in a storm of emotions, with no way to shut it off.

5) You have a natural knack for comforting others

Do people often turn to you for comfort in times of distress? This could be another indication of your higher degree of empathy.

Being able to empathize with someone’s pain or discomfort means you are equipped with an exceptional ability to provide comfort. You understand their feelings, and your response is likely to be one that acknowledges their experience and offers solace.

Whether it’s knowing exactly what to say, offering a shoulder to cry on, or even just being present with someone in silence, your empathetic nature makes you a beacon of comfort for those around you. 

6) You often put others’ needs before your own

There’s something beautiful and selfless about always considering the needs of others. If you find yourself frequently putting others first, it’s a clear sign of your strong empathetic abilities.

As an empathetic person, you understand what it feels like to be in someone else’s shoes. You know the discomfort, the pain, the joy, and because of this deep understanding, you often act in ways that aim to bring comfort or happiness to others, sometimes even at your own expense.

While this is a wonderful characteristic, it’s also important to remember that your needs matter too. Balancing empathy with self-care is essential for your own emotional well-being.

7) You’re deeply moved by art, music, or literature

There’s a particular song that always brings tears to my eyes. It’s not necessarily the lyrics, but the melody and the raw emotion in the singer’s voice that moves me. 

If you too find yourself deeply moved by art, music, or literature, it’s another sign of heightened empathy. You’re able to connect with the emotions that the creator of the work intended to convey and experience them in a way that feels personal and profound.

Just be mindful not to get too lost in these emotions and remember to stay grounded in your own experience.

8) You’re often told you’re “too sensitive”

Being told that you’re “too sensitive” or “too emotional” is something many highly empathetic people hear. It’s because you feel things deeply – not just your own emotions, but those of others too.

This sensitivity isn’t a bad thing; it’s a sign of your heightened empathy. You’re tuned into the world around you in a way that others aren’t. You might be more affected by negative news, get easily moved by a touching story, or feel drained by toxic environments.

Remember, sensitivity is a strength that allows you to connect with others deeply and compassionately. Learning how to manage and protect your energy can help ensure your sensitivity doesn’t become overwhelming.

9) You have a strong desire to reduce suffering

Above all, if you have a deep, innate desire to alleviate the suffering of others, this is perhaps the most telling sign of high empathy. Your understanding and sharing of others’ emotions naturally lead to a strong desire to bring comfort, joy, and relief.

You may find yourself drawn to careers or volunteer opportunities that allow you to help others. Or perhaps you’re the one in your friend group who’s always there to offer support and guidance.

This desire is truly a testament to your empathetic nature. It’s a gift that can bring about positive change in the world. Remember, however, that while it’s important to help others, it’s equally important to take care of yourself too.

Final reflection: Embracing empathy

As you navigate through life with a deep sense of empathy, know that your ability to understand and share the feelings of others is a powerful tool for connection, compassion, and kindness.

Your heightened empathy allows you to offer this gift to others – the gift of being truly heard and understood. It’s a trait that can bring about profound change in your personal relationships and even in the wider world.

Cherish it, nurture it, but also protect it. And remember that while it’s important to empathize with others, it’s equally important to show empathy towards yourself.