The Role of Mirror Neurons in Empathy

Mirror neurons, discovered in 1996, play a crucial role in human empathy. They activate when a person performs an action and when they observe someone else performing the same action. Mirror neurons allow us to understand the intentions and emotions of others by simulating their experiences. However, mirror neurons can also lead to empathic distress, where we internalize the emotional distress of others. The challenge for leaders is to remain emotionally connected while allowing individuals to face their own difficulties.