When you look at the state of the world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, helpless, or outraged—and unsure what actually makes a difference. I’ve certainly felt that way myself at times, and lately have been hearing from others that feel similarly. So in this talk, I explore how real change happens when inner growth meets collective action, and how compassion can move from a feeling into something that truly shapes the world.

You’re welcome to join me live each week for these talks — for free — by signing up at https://rickhanson.com/wednesday-meditations-with-dr-rick-hanson/. We always start with a guided meditation to set the tone for the evening. If you’d like to experience the meditation that accompanied this talk, you can listen to it at: https://rickhanson.com/talk-meditation-compassionate-action-for-upstream-sources-of-suffering/

And if you'd like to check out any of my online programs at https://rickhanson.com/online-courses/, you can receive 20% off by using coupon code PW20 during checkout.

When we’re hurt, frustrated, or facing difficult people, it’s easy to swing between passivity and hostility—either saying nothing and shrinking back, or getting pulled into anger, righteousness, and reactivity.

This week, I explore how to practice a wiser, more courageous form of compassion: one that helps us let go of what burdens the mind, stand up for what matters, and bring both strength and care to other people as well as to ourselves.

You’re welcome to join me live each week for these talks — for free — by signing up at https://rickhanson.com/wednesday-meditations-with-dr-rick-hanson/. We always start with a guided meditation to set the tone for the evening. If you’d like to experience the meditation that accompanied this talk, you can listen to it at: https://rickhanson.com/talk-meditation-wise-and-courageous-compassion-for-others-and-yourself/

And if you'd like to check out any of my online programs at https://rickhanson.com/online-courses/, you can receive 20% off by using coupon code PW20 during checkout.

When we feel hurt, irritated, or caught in conflict with other people, it’s easy to get stuck in resentment, reactivity, or stress. But empathy is not only something we offer others — it can also be a gift to ourselves. In this talk, I explore the personal benefits of having empathy for others, including how it can soften the heart, reduce inner burden, and help us respond more skillfully while still honoring justice and clear boundaries.

You’re welcome to join me live each week for these talks — for free — by signing up at https://rickhanson.com/wednesday-meditations-with-dr-rick-hanson/. We always start with a guided meditation to set the tone for the evening. If you’d like to experience the meditation that accompanied this talk, you can listen to it at: https://rickhanson.com/talk-meditation-the-personal-benefits-of-empathy-for-them/

And if you'd like to check out any of my online programs at https://rickhanson.com/online-courses/, you can receive 20% off by using coupon code PW20 during checkout.