Practice Self-Compassion

 We know how devastating it is to be self-critical and self-judgmental. People get stressed and overwhelmed. Eventually, they give up and lose motivation. We encourage our children to learn self-acceptance and self-affirmation. And the foundation for building a stronger self that can weather through storms in life is to practice self-compassion.

What is Self-Compassion?

Simply put, it is being kind and encouraging ourselves. It is how we treat a friend when they are in pain or suffering. It is saying, "How are you doing?", "I am here with you.", "How can I be helpful?" As we apply this to ourselves, our children will benefit from this practice of being compassionate and kind to ourselves.

Apply it to ourselves/or our children:

The Caring part of myself saying, "How are you doing?"

The Hurtful part of myself replied, "I failed, and I am sad and embarrassed."

Caring: "I am here with you."

Hurtful: "I don't want to talk to you or see anyone."

Caring: "You want some space to get away from the hurts. Do let me know when you want to talk or need any support."

Self-compassion is a caring and friendly practice. It sometimes comforts, encourages, validates, protects, and provides. Self-compassion does not force us, it respects where we are, and how we feel, stays with us, and nudges us along. 

References:

The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook by Kristin Neff, PhD, and Christopher Germer, PhD.