Empathy in our work means understanding the patient’s state of mind: why they react and speak to us a certain way, what they’re feeling, what lies beneath their words and gestures. Empathy allows us to connect with the person in front of us. It’s the foundation of the therapeutic alliance, because it’s not only the patient who must trust the doctor, but also the doctor who must listen to and trust the patient.

Matteo Bassetti

Saving lives is no ordinary job. Despite difficult conditions, a doctor must strive not to leave anyone behind, not to rush or fall into routine, but to treat every patient in the best possible way. A doctor may be technically brilliant, but without human qualities, they will never be as effective as an empathetic one.

Care, compassion, dedication, the ability to listen: these are known as soft skills — or transversal skills. They’re much harder to learn and even harder to measure than hard skills. According to Stanford Research Institute International, 75% of long-term job success depends on mastering soft skills, while only 25% relies on technical skills.

This is a vital book for understanding what it truly means to be a doctor today — blending personal experience, deep reflection, and practical advice for both medical professionals and patients.

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