Self-Compassion for Better Mental Health: Three Simple Steps to Start Today
Self-Compassion for Better Mental Health: Three Simple Steps to Start Today
Written by Lily Thrope
What is self-compassion?
Self-compassion is about being kinder and more empathetic to oneself. Many people can do this for others, but it can be difficult to do for themselves. It is easy to engage in self-loathing, shame, and self-inflicted anger; to self-criticize and overthink difficult moments, but, truth be told, we're only human. Establishing self-compassion skills can help us have better self-esteem, stronger personal growth, and a brighter outlook on our lives.
How can we build self-compassion?
Be your own best friend.
What does this mean? Well, be the same empathetic, kind and supportive friend to yourself, as you might be with others. It is always more helpful to be kinder to ourselves. The next time you catch yourself relentlessly criticizing something you have done, take a moment, take a breath. Ask yourself, what would I say to my best friend in this situation? Chances are, it’s something far kinder than what you’re saying to yourself.
Being your own best friend means listening to yourself without judgment, acknowledging even the difficult feelings, and most importantly, showing yourself patience and deep compassion.
Compliment yourself.
When was the last time you gave yourself a genuine compliment? For many of us, the answer might be never. But practicing self-compliments can shift your mindset and help you see yourself in a more positive light. It might feel weird at first, but complimenting yourself is a great way to build self-compassion. Start small. Each day, try to think of one thing you appreciate about yourself. It could be as simple as, I handled that conversation well, or as personal as, I love the way my laugh sounds.
This practice aligns with positive self-talk, which replaces negative thought patterns with more constructive and affirming ones. Over time, this shift can make a significant difference in how you view yourself and your abilities. Of course it is easier said than done, but over time, growth can happen.
Utilize mindfulness.
Mindfulness serves as the foundation for self-compassion by allowing us to observe our thoughts and feelings without judgment. This awareness separates our experiences from our reactions, allowing for more compassionate responses. Here are a few exercises to try:
Meditation for kindness
Practice body scans
Journal about your emotions without judgment
Acknowledging your emotions judgment-free, and with great care and attentiveness, is a very effective method. By practicing mindfulness, you learn to respond to challenges with greater clarity and compassion, rather than reacting from a place of self-criticism, fear and self-inflicted shame and self-loathing.
Integrating self-compassion into your daily life can be transformative. For personalized guidance and support in developing self-compassion, consider consulting with a mental health professional who can tailor these approaches to your specific needs and circumstances. At Thrope Therapy we offer in-person and virtual sessions. Reach out to schedule your free 15-minute consultation.
