Paraphrasing is one of the simplest ways to help people feel heard and understood. By reflecting both the facts and the concern behind someone’s words, leaders can reduce misunderstandings, lower defensiveness, and create better conditions for solving the practical issue. This article introduces a simple paraphrasing formula and Sentence Starter Template you can use in everyday conversations.

Empathy is more than being kind—it’s one of the most effective ways leaders create the conditions for productive conversations. Discover The Empathy Path, a practical framework that helps people feel understood, builds trust, and makes collaborative problem-solving possible.