Empathetic Connection At Work Through Sawubona
Empathy is a powerful human trait that allows us to truly understand and connect with others. It is the ability to step into another person's world, feeling their emotions and comprehending their behaviors and actions. In a world driven by personal goals and achievements, the Zulu phrase Sawubona, pronounced sow:’bo:nah, serves as a poignant reminder of the value of community and human connection. Translated to "I see you - you are important to me and I value you," this phrase encourages us to be mindful of the needs of others and to recognize the unique worth of each individual within our society. It calls us to be active members in our communities, working together to create meaningful experiences and uplift one another. Sawubona is a powerful declaration of empathy and appreciation for the people around us.
Despite our yearning for deeper connections and a sense of belonging, we are trapped in repetitive actions and patterns that prevent us from truly connecting with each other in our daily lives. When we greet someone with a simple "hi" or "good morning", it is often just a mechanical gesture, with no real intention behind it. We hope for a brief, expected response and rarely take the time to make eye contact. We feel as though we are always in a rush, too occupied to pause, engage, and truly get to know the individuals we encounter.
When you contemplate the concept of Sawubona, it becomes a powerful reminder of acknowledging and being acknowledged by others. It is recognizing that we coexist for each other's benefit. Despite our unique backgrounds, it is these diverse perspectives that can come together to form a supportive community at work. Each person brings their own unique talents and abilities to contribute to the collective group. And I am grateful for the people in my life that take the time to see, hear, and understand me.
The purpose of Sawubona is to encourage us to recognize and empathize with others without making assumptions or judgments. It reminds us to be mindful of the needs of those around us, and to appreciate the individuals in our communities both at work and at home.
Remember this Zulu saying the next time you have an interaction at work, and be mindful of the influence you can have on those around you.