In a post on LinkedIn, Bob Burg reflected on the difference between sympathy and empathy—and how choosing empathy strengthens both relationships and results.

“Sympathy is about your feelings. Empathy is about theirs,” Burg wrote, urging readers to consider the practical impact of each. He shared a story originally told by Zig Ziglar, in which empathy means helping a seasick passenger find relief, while sympathy might mean getting sick right alongside them.

That story stuck with him—and it now serves as a framework for leadership and influence.

“Empathy isn’t just nicer. It’s more useful. It’s the difference between reacting emotionally and responding helpfully,” Burg wrote. “Want to be more effective in how you influence, support, and lead? Shift the focus from you… to them.”

Entrepreneurial resilience often hinges on this shift—from reacting based on one’s own emotional discomfort to responding in ways that serve customers, teams, and communities. Resilient entrepreneurs listen, adapt, and lead with empathy—not just emotion.

Burg is the coauthor of The Go-Giver and a Hall of Fame keynote speaker on referrals, relationship building, and influence.