When one has empathy it means that they’re able to tap into the feelings of others. And this is something that many professions are in pursuit of today. Doctors, salesmen, and many others are looking to become more empathetic towards the people they serve.

Empathy causes individuals to feel deeply. They’re often overly sensitive. And though they prefer to experience positive feelings, they’re more prone to deal with negative emotions. Dealing with new situations and people can be difficult so they enter relationships with caution.

Though empathetic people can view this ability as a burden, it’s important to realize that this is an invaluable characteristic. Living in a society with so many insensitive people can seem like a challenge, but there are several positive aspects to be being an empath.

Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself From Negative Emotions And Transform Your Life is a book in which bestselling author Dr. Judith Orloff states that empaths are good listeners, natural givers and attuned spiritually. These world class nurturers are there for you through thick and thin.

Below are six ways in which empathetic people are highly unique:

1. They’re curious about the world.

They’ve managed to maintain their childlike wonder. They’re interested in learning, not judging.

2. They trust their intuition.

While many pay attention to their intuition, they often rely on other information when making decisions. Highly sensitive people, however, make decisions based on their intuition alone.

3. They easily see things from other people’s view point.

These individuals are careful about their decision making because they know it affects those around them. They can put themselves in other people’s shoes and feel what they feel.

4. They manage the environment.

Because they’re sensitive to the world around them, empaths are more selective about the environments and relationships in which they involve themselves.

5. They’re present in every moment.

These individuals feel obligated to share what they learn with others. And they’re always present in each moment–longing to understand what lies beneath the surface.

6. They serve as an inspiration.

They are champions for those who face inequalities because they feel their pain. Their passion is contagious and it positions them to be leaders of change.

Anthon St. Marteen expresses his thoughts about empathetic people by concluding that they’re what hold society together. He says that their feelings are what should be the norm and that their tears should be a light to those who live in such a cold world. These individuals shouldn’t be viewed as weak–only as those who are unafraid to show authentic feeling.

Though important, empathy isn’t something that’s encouraged, specifically in the work world. However, the Center for Creatively Leadership conducted a study which concluded that this skill played a significant role in positive job performance. So it could be something that serves businesses well.

Many lose empathy as they grow older. But this doesn’t have to be the case. With a genuine curiosity, a yearning for knowledge and a desire to form new connections, empathy can be developed and fostered.