Self-compassion is the process of directing kindness to ourselves. When we face problems and difficulties, we support and encourage ourselves rather than becoming judgemental. Self-compassion is one of the most effective forms of tolerance and resilience, significantly increasing our physical and mental health. It inspires us to make adaptations and attain our goals for happiness.
Components of Self-Compassion
- Self – Kindness Versus Judgement
When we are self-compassionate, we treat ourselves like a dear friend. Self-compassion enables us to see our suffering from a different angle by accepting the “other’s” perspective of us. Instead of passing harsh judgments on ourselves, especially in difficult situations, we take care of ourselves with compassion and empathy. Overcoming our inner critic is the essential phase in developing a self-compassionate mindset.
- Common Humanity Versus Isolation
When we fail, we are more likely to feel isolated and separated from other people. Feelings of inferiority and uncertainty take over us, and our viewpoint narrows. When we are trapped in a place of negativity, it seems as though there are no other people in the world. Self-compassion allows us to realise that our pain connects us rather than isolates us from others.
- Mindfulness Versus Over-Identification With Self
Mindfulness is an essential component of self-compassion. We must be mindful, which means being aware of the present moment in a clear and balanced manner. It helps us from being “over-identified”. It protects us from negative responses by preventing difficult thoughts and emotions.
The Benefits of Self-Compassion
Self-compassion has been connected to higher emotional resilience, more accurate self-concepts, more loving interpersonal behaviour, and lower levels of impulsive anger making it more helpful to our psychological well-being.
Healthy behaviours: Self-compassion involves making decisions that reduce one’s suffering. Individuals with higher levels of self-compassion prefer to make better decisions for themselves and their futures.
Emotional and Mental Well-being: People with self-compassion have reduced rates of anxiety, depression, excessive shame, and suicidal thoughts. It increases positive feelings such as optimism and hope for the future.
Better Interpersonal relationships: Self-compassion promotes less selfish behaviour in partnerships. People who practise self-compassion are more intimate, friendly, and less dominating.
Physical Health: Self-compassion is beneficial for our physical health. It is associated with better immune system activity and other physiological functions. People with self-compassion try to take better care of themselves. This can often be achieved by healthy diets and regular exercise.
Resilience: Self-compassionate people are kind to themselves and recover from failures more quickly. Self-compassion is a strength, not a weakness; it gets you through difficult times.
Developing self-compassion gives us the ability to change the way we interact with both the outside world and ourselves. We start on a path of strength and inner healing by being kind to ourselves, accepting our imperfections, and practising mindfulness. Let us keep practising self-compassion, realising that it provides a positive impact of compassion and insight that improves not only ourselves but everyone around us.
“Being Self-compassionate leads to a greater sense of self-worth and therefore self-love”
-Cary O. Goodwin
“Embrace Your Confidence” guides how to begin the journey of self-compassion and develop confidence and self-respect.