UnSelfie
by Michele Borba
Key Concepts
Empathy Advantage
Empathy is a teachable skill that predicts success, happiness, and resilience more than IQ.
Moral Compass
Developing empathy helps children understand others' perspectives and act ethically.
Digital Disconnect
Over-reliance on screens can hinder empathy development by reducing face-to-face interaction.
Kindness Contagion
Practicing kindness and compassion creates a positive ripple effect in families and communities.
Emotional Literacy
Teaching children to identify and manage their own emotions is foundational to understanding others'.
Action Items
Model empathy by openly discussing feelings and perspectives with your children.
Encourage 'perspective-taking' by asking children how others might feel in various situations.
Limit screen time to prioritize face-to-face interactions and real-world experiences.
Involve children in community service or acts of kindness to foster altruism.
Praise empathetic behaviors, highlighting the positive impact on others.
Core Thesis
Cultivating empathy is the essential antidote to narcissism, fostering resilient, compassionate, and successful children.
Mindset Shift
The focus shifts from solely building self-esteem to cultivating 'other-esteem' and compassion as keys to true well-being.