A Case for Self-Compassion
If you struggle with a strong inner-critic, perfectionism, or pushing past your limits, I’m really glad that you’re here.
Can you think of a recent time that you were hard on yourself?
If so, call to mind what happened. Then notice, how you responded to yourself.
Now imagine a friend going through something similar and responding to them in the same way. ICK…my guess is that probably doesn’t sit right with you.
You might be noticing that you typically treat yourself pretty differently from how you treat your friends.
Self-compassion work is often messy for this very reason: We don’t like how it feels to be hard on ourselves, and at the same time, we often find that we have some sort of case against self-compassion.
Before trying to create a case for self-compassion, it’s important to get to know this part of your story. And if you’re like the rest of us, it’s a really familiar part of your story that’s been with you for a very long time.
The good news: there is another way.
Dr. Kristin Neff talks about self-compassion as turning compassion inward. If you have compassion for others, I believe that you have the capacity to hold a nonjudgmental, observant, and tender posture towards yourself, too.
The case for self-compassion might sound like less stress, anxiety, and depression in your life. It might sound like increased connection and authenticity with others. For some of you, it may sound like feeling free from striving and being more fully present in your life. Whatever your reason, I’d love to support you on your journey towards more self-compassion and living out what matters to you most.
If you’re wanting to learn more about self-compassion, check out the following resources:
Education, resources, and practical guides: https://self-compassion.org/
Faith-based resources: https://aundikolber.com/