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Empaths are highly sensitive and compassionate people. They feel everything to an extreme degree and are often overwhelmed by their emotions.
No matter how well you match up with an empath on paper, your relationship will face many challenges. However, if you understand their needs and accept them for who they are, your relationship can be incredibly passionate and rewarding.
What is an empath?
An empath is a person who is highly sensitive to their own emotions and the emotions and energy of others. They can sense the vibe in a room and often know what other people are feeling before they know themselves.
Empaths are highly compassionate and caring people who feel the need to help others. As a result, they often choose careers in professions such as social work, teaching, nursing, and medicine.
The downside of being an empath is that they are easily overwhelmed by their emotions. They often feel drained after being around large groups of people or in chaotic environments. Large crowds, bright lights, and loud noises are often too much for empaths to handle.
Many empaths are introverts and need a lot of time alone. The constant stress and stimulus of daily life can be overwhelming, and quiet time alone allows them to recharge their emotional batteries.
The caring nature of empaths means they have special needs when it comes to relationships. They are often attracted to other highly sensitive and compassionate people who can understand their needs and provide mutual support.
Unfortunately, empaths are more likely to be taken advantage of in relationships. They are people pleasers, have a hard time saying no, and in extreme cases, can give too much to their relationships and begin to lose their sense of identity. An empath’s partner must be supportive and understanding but also know how to set and maintain sensible emotional boundaries.
23 tips for loving an empath
An empath needs the right partner to feel loved, supported, and understood. When they find someone who really gets them, they will be the most loving, loyal, and supportive partner you could ask for.
Here are 23 tips for a successful and loving relationship with an empath.
1. Don’t take their fear of intimacy personally
Empaths fall hard and fast and give everything to their relationships. As a result, they often avoid intimacy in the early stages of a relationship because they know how badly they can be hurt if things don’t work out. They are also conscious of overwhelming a new partner with their intensity and might keep their distance until they are sure of your feelings.
It’s important to understand that an empath’s fear of intimacy isn’t personal. They still want to be close to you but just need to take things slowly. Be patient, understanding, and supportive, and they will eventually open up to you.
2. Give them plenty of space
As I’ve already mentioned, empaths need a lot of time alone to recharge. Give them the space they need, and don’t take it personally if they need to cancel plans or spend a weekend alone. It’s nothing personal; they just need time to themselves.
The need for space can be hard for some people to understand, but it’s essential for an empath’s well-being. If they feel suffocated or like they can’t breathe, they will quickly become overwhelmed and stressed.
3. Maintain your independence
Because your empath partner needs a lot of space, having a rich and fulfilling life outside your relationship is essential. Sitting around waiting for them to call or text will only make you feel resentful and angry.
Make sure you have your own hobbies, friends, and interests that you can pursue without them. This will help you to maintain your independence and prevent you from feeling lonely, resentful, or like you’re being left out. You should never outsource your happiness to someone else or rely on them for your own self-worth.
4. Set clear emotional boundaries
Empaths are highly emotional creatures who feel things deeply, which can create stress and anxiety in their relationships. Clear emotional boundaries are essential to ensure you both get the space and support you need. The last thing you want is to be walking around on eggshells, afraid to upset them.
To avoid misunderstandings, sit down with your partner and agree on what you both need from the relationship. Discuss your expectations, needs, and boundaries openly and honestly. This will help create a solid foundation for your relationship and prevent any misunderstandings or hurt feelings.
5. Don’t let them prioritize your needs over their own
Part of setting emotional boundaries with an empath is ensuring they don’t constantly prioritize your needs over theirs. Just because they are naturally inclined to care for other people doesn’t mean they should always sacrifice their own happiness.
Please encourage them to take care of themselves and make time for the things that bring them joy. Keep a watchful eye for signs they are losing themselves in your relationship and make sure their people-pleasing tendencies aren’t causing them to neglect their own needs.
6. Make time for regular check-ins
It’s a good idea to have regular relationship check-ins with an empath to ensure you are happy and on the same page. This is especially important when one or both of you are having a tough time. Empaths can quickly become overwhelmed by their emotions, making them feel disconnected from their partner.
7. Show them commitment
Empaths are constantly worried about being abandoned or left, so it’s important to reassure them that you’re committed to the relationship. Tell them how much you care through your words and actions. Be there for them when they need you, and show them that you’re in it for the long haul.
This doesn’t mean you have to spend every waking moment together. Remember, empaths need plenty of time alone. But it does mean being supportive and understanding when they’re going through a tough time. They need to know you won’t abandon them when things get tough.
8. Don’t try to change them
It might be tempting to view the highly emotional nature of an empath as some sort of flaw that needs to be cured, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Empaths are incredibly special and should be cherished for the compassion and love they bring into the world.
Don’t try to change your empath partner to “toughen them up” or make them less sensitive. It will only make them withdraw and hide their true feelings for you. All you can do is accept them for who they are and work hard to create a happy and healthy relationship.
9. Don’t force them to be social
If you’re a social and outgoing person, it can be frustrating when your partner often wants to stay home. However, the worst thing you can do is try to force an empath to be social when they’re not in the mood. They will become sullen and withdrawn and resent you for pushing them outside their comfort zone.
It’s important to respect your partner’s need for alone time, but don’t let their empathic nature destroy your social life. Make plenty of time to see your friends and do the things you love, even if your partner can’t always join you.
10. Avoid confrontation where possible
Every couple has disagreements, but avoiding unnecessary conflict with an empath is essential. They tend to take things very personally and easily become overwhelmed by negative emotions. If you do disagree, always discuss the issue in a calm and understanding way.
Empaths need plenty of time to process their feelings, so don’t expect them to be ready to talk about problems immediately. Give them space to calm down and come to terms with their emotions. When they’re ready, they’ll come to you, and you can discuss the issue more constructively.
11. Don’t lie to them
Empaths can see right through lies and deception, so be honest with them at all times. They might not always like what you have to say, but they would rather hear the truth than be lied to. Even white lies or lies of omission can cause an empath to withdraw and build resentment.
12. Encourage them to get a pet
Many empaths find that having a pet helps them to feel more grounded and gives them an outlet to express their love and compassion. Pets can provide companionship, unconditional love, and a sense of responsibility. They can also help to ease anxiety and give the sense of calm empaths crave to feel balanced.
13. Provide quiet spaces
A constant barrage of noise and stimulation is overwhelming for an empath. If your home is noisy, messy, or chaotic, try creating a few calm and quiet places where your partner can escape the mayhem. This might be a spot in the garden or even just a quiet room where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.
14. They may pull away when things get tough
When an empath is going through a tough time, they may instinctively pull away from the people they love. It doesn’t mean they don’t care about you; it’s just their way of dealing with intense emotions.
If your partner starts to withdraw, give them time and space to work through their feelings, and don’t take it personally. They’ll return to you when ready, and you can provide the support they need.
15. Encourage them to get into nature
Nature is incredibly healing for empaths, who often feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of modern life. Spend time with your partner in nature, whether going for walks in the park or taking a weekend camping trip. It will help them to feel more connected and grounded and bring some peace into their life.
16. They can’t always express what they feel
Empaths often have a hard time putting their feelings into words. Sorting through the storm of emotions they feel is confusing and exhausting, so they give up and stay silent. This can be frustrating for their partners, who feel like they’re being shut out.
Many empaths use creative activities like drawing, music, or writing to express their emotions. It gives them a way to communicate their complex feelings without having to find the words. Encourage your partner to pursue their creative interests and provide them with the space to express themselves in whatever way they feel comfortable.
17. Practice active listening
Listening to your partner is essential in any relationship, but it’s especially important when communicating with an empath. Active listening takes things to the next level by showing that you really understand what the other person is saying.
If you’re not sure how to practice active listening, here are a few tips:
- Repeat what your partner said (in different words) to show that you understand.
- Ask questions whenever you don’t understand or need clarification.
- Don’t interrupt while your partner speaks, and avoid judgments or assumptions.
- Focus your attention on your partner and try to put aside any distractions.
18. Their intuition is a superpower
Empaths are highly intuitive and can often sense things that other people miss. You can learn a lot from your partner’s intuition, so listen carefully to what they say, even if it doesn’t make sense initially.
19. Have fun and make them laugh
Laughter is the best medicine, and it’s especially powerful for empaths. When life gets tough, try to lighten the mood with fun and laughter. It’ll make your partner feel more relaxed and help ease their stress.
20. Recognize when they are hurting
Empaths tend to absorb the emotions of those around them, so they often carry around a lot of pain that isn’t their own. This can be exhausting and overwhelming, especially if they don’t know how to deal with it.
If your partner is struggling, try to be understanding and supportive. They may not want to talk about what’s happening, but just knowing that you’re there for them can make a world of difference.
21. Encourage self-care
Self-care can be hard for empaths, who often put the needs of others ahead of their own. If you notice your partner isn’t taking care of themselves, gently encourage them to make changes. Eating healthy food, getting enough sleep, and spending time in nature are great ways to nurture their mind, body, and soul.
22. Stay positive
Being with an empath can be a roller coaster ride of emotions, but staying positive through tough times is key. Think of all the beautiful things about your partner and focus on all the good times you’ve shared. Empaths are full of love and compassion, so cherish your time together and don’t take it for granted.
23. Encourage them to seek help if required
If your empath partner struggles to cope with their intense emotions, encourage them to talk to a therapist or counselor. Therapy is a big step for many people, but it can be incredibly helpful. A therapist can help your partner set boundaries, understand their personality, and deal with their emotions in a healthy way.
FAQs
What is the best partner for an empath?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as each empath is unique and has different preferences and needs. However, empaths will generally match well with other sensitive people, introverts, and those who enjoy a quiet environment.
It is also important for empaths to find a supportive and understanding partner, as their highly emotional nature can sometimes be overwhelming.
What are the worst qualities of an empath?
Empaths are sensitive, emotional, and easily overwhelmed, which can cause stress and conflict in relationships. They often have difficulty maintaining and respecting emotional boundaries and may need a lot of alone time, which can be difficult for their partner to understand.
Empaths also tend to be people-pleasers, which can lead them into relationships and situations that are unhealthy. Empaths need to learn how to take care of themselves, or they may be taken advantage of.
How does an empath know they are in love?
Empaths fall in love quickly and deeply, and they need to be careful not to get swept up in the intensity of their emotions. However, they will usually know they are in love when they feel a deep connection with someone and feel compelled to nurture and take care of them. Empaths also tend to be highly intuitive and will often just “know” when they have found the right person.
