How much self-compassion are you showing yourself? The way we speak to ourselves and the rules we create for ourselves have a huge impact on how we feel, our confidence and motivation. It can also impact our decision-making, our relationships and how we treat others.
Often we fear self-compassion because it might make us weak or less resilient. Whereas, the opposite is true. Those who practice (and it is a practice) mindful self-compassion regularly are more resilient, forgiving of themselves and others, and less critical. They are able to gently challenge the negative narrative or their inner critic.
But where to start?
> Slow down - This is the first step. Slow down to enable a greater awareness of your behaviours and patterns. When you’re rushing around (physically and mentally) it’s impossible to notice anything.
> Mindfulness - Be mindful of your inner critic, and the impact this has on you. Find ways to speak to yourself with more kindness and support. Engage in one thing at a time and pay attention.
> Forgiveness - Forgive yourself the things that do not go perfectly. No one is perfect and that is ok.
> Joy - Remind yourself of the things that bring you joy and do more of them - big or small. These are often the first things to get pushed aside as prioritise looking after others, putting others first and other daily tasks. Taking time for you helps to reconnect to yourself, and tops up your ‘self-love cup’.
> Gratitude - Recall the things you are grateful for in your life. This helps remind the inner critic of all the good and changes up our energy to focus on the positive. Writing down your grateful list, or mindfully noting them is hugely powerful.
Go easy on yourself, don’t forget that you are important. The way we treat ourselves is a demonstration of how we wish to be treated.
How do you take time to demonstrate self-compassion?
To really connect with your well-being and learn to prioritise your self-care, I offer a 'Back to well-being' programme to help you go back to basics, here.
Gemma Brown is an associate certified coach with the International Coach Federation, working with people to navigate successfully through transitions - be it career, relationships or life in general. Her belief is that when we confidently bring our whole selves to all areas of life, anything is possible. Transitions exist in both our personal and business life, and so often, the two fiercely overlap. Coaching with Gemma focuses on you as a whole, enabling you to identify your strengths, build confidence and to live a life with increased purpose and direction. Gemma is based in Cambridgeshire and carries out face to face coaching in the area as well as 1-2-1 coaching via Skype and Zoom. For more about Gemma, visit her 'About' page or contact her directly.
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