SELF COMPASSION
Often, when we find ourselves in a difficult situation or in certain circumstances we tend to be very hard on our selves. We tend to paint a very negative picture of ourselves. “I am not good enough”. “I am worthless”. It is easily for us to self-criticize, judge ourselves, and even blame ourselves even if it might not entirely be our fault. This can cause immense emotional pain resulting in us losing faith in ourselves, doubting our potential, and ultimately becoming hopeless.
Even if we do manage to get ourselves together, the goal post of what seems as “good enough” always feels out of reach. Insecurity, anxiety, and depression are very common in today’s society, much of this due to self-judgment, to beating ourselves up when we feel that we’re not winning in the game of life.
So what’s the answer? To stop judging, criticizing, and hating ourselves altogether. Stop labeling yourself as either “good” or “bad” and simply accept yourself with an open heart. Treat yourself with the same kindness, caring, and compassion we would show to a good friend. START BECOMING YOUR BEST FRIEND.
This week we are focusing on SELF-COMPASSION. According to Kristin Neff, author of “Self Compassion stop beating yourself up and leave insecurity behind” Self-compassion entails three core components. First, it requires self-kindness, that we be gentle and understanding with ourselves rather than harshly critical and judgmental. Second, it requires recognition of our common humanity, feeling connected with others in the experience of life rather than feeling isolated or alienated by our suffering. Third, it requires mindfulness-that we hold our experience in balanced awareness, rather than ignoring our pain or exaggerating it. “
This week we will be exploring self-compassion through letter writing.
Attached:
- Compile a list of things you don’t like about yourself or tend to think when you find yourself in a horrible or emotional situation.
- Think of an event (example: Your boyfriend breaks up with you) and instead of being self-critical, judgmental, or condemning yourself, write a letter to yourself from a friend’s perspective. What would they tell and advice you in this situation?
What would a compassionate friend say to you during difficult times?
- I am proud of you.
- You are so strong.
- Keep fighting through this.
- You will get through this.
- You deserve better.
- Now is the time that you put yourself first and focus on you.
- Better things are coming.
- Things happen for a reason.
- You are such a beautiful individual.
- Stop blaming yourself
- I suggest you…..
Self-love_week_2_worksheet1.pdf | |
File Size: | 22 kb |
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Self-love_week2_self-compassion_letter.pdf | |
File Size: | 24 kb |
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