| “I found in my research that the biggest reason people aren’t more self-compassionate is that they are afraid they’ll become self-indulgent. They believe self-criticism is what keeps them in line. Most people have gotten it wrong because our culture says being hard on yourself is the way to be.”— Kristen Neff |
Something to Read
What is self-compassion? “Self-compassion is being “kind and understanding when confronted with personal failings” (Neff, n.d.). It means that you act the same way toward yourself when you are going through a tough time that you would act towards a dear friend: noticing the suffering, empathizing or “suffering with” yourself, and offering kindness and understanding” (excerpt taken from Positive Psychology Website)
So, how do you think you’re doing in this area? It’s my experience that most
of us could benefit from a healthy dose of self-compassion.
Take this Self-Compassion Test from Dr. Kirsten Neff to assess your level of self-compassion. You might be surprised by what you learn; maybe you can celebrate that you’re already on the right path, or perhaps this is an opportunity for growth.
In health coaching, assessments are valuable tools that we use to gain insight, to measure progress and to hone in on areas where we might want to explore. If this feels like a growth opportunity for you and you’d like support navigating a self-compassion practice,
support is available!
Something to Try
This week, here’s an invitation to practice not just Self-Compassion, but Fierce Self-Compassion.
Consider for a moment what it means to be fiercely self-compassionate? Does it mean protecting our own time, asking for help, offering ourselves the same loving kindness we would offer a friend? Being our own cheerleader and champion?
This short sequence of Fierce Self Compassion phrases from Center for Mindful Self Compassion is accompanied by the soothing sound of crashing ocean waves. May the phrases inspire you on your quest for fierce self-compassion.
Something to Create
Mindful coloring can have enormous benefits for soothing anxiety, improving focus, bringing our awareness into the present moment and plus, it just feels good to create!
So, grab your colored pencils and a cup of tea. Put on some relaxing music and pause while you set an intention of self-compassion for the week.
Self Compassion Coloring PageTo learn more about Mindful Coloring and the benefits, you can visit the Smiling Mind website.
Something to Consider
“If you want to reach out for something greater, you have to let go of what’s in your hand.” –Sonia Choquette
Last week, I wrote about getting un-stuck and letting go is a big part of this. What might you let go of this week? Health Coaching can help, learn more by scheduling your free Q&A Call.
