Why does having someone pity you feel so awful?

<p>Pity is a strange emotion. Is it the same/similar to empathy? I didn’t think so but one of the panelists suggested that maybe it is. Listen in and see if you agree or not.</p> <p> </p> <p>Daniel Gramkee started us off by noting the difference between just pitying yourself verses having other people notice that you are.</p> <p> </p> <p>Alexi Bracey noticed that when someone is feeling pity for you, they mean well but often come with unsolicited advice and information, which can make you feel worse rather than better.</p> <p> </p> <p>Kevin Wash thinks that some people mix up pity and sympathy. He feels that sympathy is sincere concern. And pity is condescending, contemptuous, aggressive – patronizing (I agree with that last one).</p> <p> </p> <p>What does it mean to pity someone (or have them pity you)? Is there any positive aspect to it? Why do you think it feels so awful?</p> <p> </p> <p>Connect with the panelists:</p> <p>Kevin Wash: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-wash-23b90915/</p> <p>Coach, mentor, author, trainer, and speaker running a consultancy business specializing in sales for international property development. Based in Spain</p> <p> </p> <p>Alexi Bracey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexi-bracey-34935a7/</p> <p>Mission Happiness. Promoting happiness for no reason. Bouncing back after cancer and dementia prevention specialist.</p> <p> </p> <p>Daniel T Gramkee: <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/dtgramkee/'>https://www.linkedin.com/in/dtgramkee/</a></p> <p>He is a photographic artist with a background in performance and coaching who will capture you at your competitive best</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr Robyn Odegaard: <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynodegaard/'>https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynodegaard/</a></p> <p>AKA Mental MacGyver. My doctorate is in organizational business psychology with a concentration in sport and performance. I provide luxury level, high performance support and coaching to executives, founders, celebrities and athletes.</p> <p> </p> <p>Want a summary of Quick Hits plus the l