Let’s be honest — sometimes we can be a little too hard on ourselves. It’s natural to be your own worst critic; after all, you know yourself better than anyone else. But what if you showed yourself the same kindness, care and understanding you offer a good friend who’s going through a tough time? It makes them feel very supported, and doing that for yourself is what self-compassion is all about.
“When you make a mistake or feel inadequate for whatever reason, it helps to show yourself some kindness,“ advises Haley Flott, PDRMA Wellness Consultant. "Think of how you would encourage a friend — then turn that same encouragement and support inward.”
"Think of how you would encourage a friend — then turn that same encouragement and support inward.”
Three Pillars of Self-compassion
Self-compassion includes these three pillars.
- Self-kindness vs. Self-judgment: Treat yourself with warmth and understanding, rather than criticism and blame.
- Common Humanity vs. Isolation: Remember, everyone struggles sometimes. Being imperfect is part of being human, and you’re not alone in your challenges.
- Mindfulness vs. Over-identification: Notice your harsh thoughts and feelings without letting them take over or believing they define who you are.
Let Self-compassion Supercharge Your Wellness Goals
It’s easier to achieve your wellness goals when you motivate yourself with kindness and encouragement. When you keep that critical inner voice in check, you’ll feel more empowered — and bounce back faster from mistakes by seeing them as learning opportunities, not personal failures.
When it comes to food and exercise, shift away from rigid, punishing routines and move to a flexible and more enjoyable approach to health. You can always reschedule or skip this week’s yoga class if there’s something else you really want to do. Take time to enjoy a treat every now and then without judging yourself — balance is key!
Self-compassion Impacts Mental Wellness
Adopting these three pillars of self-compassion can reduce anxiety and depression by lessening feelings of shame and unworthiness, which are often at the root of mental health struggles. Practicing self-compassion helps you become more aware of your emotions and manage them more effectively. Best of all, accepting your own faults and mistakes can boost your empathy and compassion for others, too.
Make it Stick
Self-compassion is the foundation of all your other healthy habits. It's a powerful tool that helps you stick to your wellness goals, even when life gets messy. Let it become a routine part of your mindset!
Start practicing today with a simple, compassionate pause. Whenever you feel frustrated or disappointed with yourself, take a moment to notice the feeling and gently tell yourself, "This is a moment of struggle, and it's okay to feel this way." You can even set aside five minutes each day to reflect on challenges ahead of you and offer yourself a few kind, encouraging words.
You can make focusing on self-compassion a lifelong practice. Learning to treat yourself with the same care and understanding you give to others allows you to build the resilience you need to bounce back from setbacks and create a fulfilling wellness journey that truly lasts.
Find Self-compassion Support on PATH
Make sure to take advantage of these great resources and put your self-compassion knowledge to good use.