Understanding is a core skill we all need to hone in order to be happier and more successful, because the alternative, not understanding, often leads to assumption, unhappiness and conflict. 

There are lots of old sayings that reinforce this reality, including:

"Don't judge a book by its cover"

"Appearances can be deceiving"

“Believe half of what you say, a third of what you see, and none of what you hear.”

Building one’s ability to empathise is quickly becoming one of the most important tasks of the 21st century, and the good news is it can be learned!