Most of what we need for a good professional life and successful relationships is inherent in us. But sometimes the sources of happiness and success are not accessible because our beliefs, our preferred behaviour and our social environment prevent us from accessing ideas and alternative ways of acting. It is emotional and social competences that contribute to maintaining people's performance and joy of life. With empathy and benevolence, relationships succeed that help us to act in a self-effective and life-serving way. The rampant empathy deficit syndrome must be curbed.  With empathy, good ideas and effective methods, we empower people and organisations to use their influence, knowledge, creativity, courage and skills to find ways to move themselves and the community forward.