---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: The first step toward feeling compassion…"
description: "\"“The first step toward feeling compassion for others is to set the intention to try it out.”\" — Sharon Salzberg"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/6f9/sharon-salzberg-562_compassion_the-first-step-toward-feeling-compassion_3146908.png"
---

#  The first step toward feeling compassion for others is to…

![“The first step toward feeling compassion for others is to set the intention to try it out.” quote by Sharon Salzberg](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/6f9/sharon-salzberg-562_compassion_the-first-step-toward-feeling-compassion_3146908.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/6f9/sharon-salzberg-562_compassion_the-first-step-toward-feeling-compassion_3146908.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/6f9/sharon-salzberg-562_compassion_the-first-step-toward-feeling-compassion_3146908.png)

> ““The first step toward feeling compassion for others is to set the intention to try it out.””

[Sharon Salzberg](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/sharon-salzberg/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Compassion begins with a conscious decision to practice empathy toward others.

**In simple terms:** Compassion starts with intention.

Key Takeaway

Set an intention to practice empathy.

Themes

compassion mindfulness empathy

Mood

calm hopeful

Type

inspirational practical

When to use this quote

- volunteering
- conflict resolution
- customer service
- personal relationships

Key Concepts

Buddhist practice psychology

Questions to Reflect On

- How can you turn intention into daily practice?
- What obstacles hinder your empathy attempts?

A Different Perspective

Intention alone may not translate into action without skill.

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[Compassion](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/compassion/) [Compassion for others](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/compassion-for-others/) [First step](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/first-step/) [Intention](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/intention/) [Mindfulness](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/mindfulness/) [Real love quotes](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/real-love-quotes/)

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