I'm starting to realize that I am a bit of a narcissist (I think most people are to some extent) and I want to try to get better. In particular, I have difficulty empathizing with other people. My coldness has caused me to hurt people around me, people I love, and I feel ashamed. I'm not totally devoid of sensitivity as I understand when other people are hurting; I am just largely incapable of producing an appropriate vicarious emotional response. Animals seem to be an exception, as I can viscerally feel their suffering.

You can’t really “make” yourself feel something that is automatic for most people. It’s good that you’re self-aware, so just try your best not to do harm. And if you do feel empathy for animals, channel that into something worthy; ever thought of volunteering or going in that track?

>>33265344
Like you said, I doubt I can ever have this automatic response towards people. I like to think that by ruminating on my actions and the feelings of other people I might improve. I imagine that my empathy is like a weak muscle on my left arm. It will never be a natural response but it can still get stronger through work. Maybe i'm incorrect.

Got a job as an ecologist.