As a nation, we are known for our strong character and compassion, yet when it comes to the individuals that collectively make up our society, many of us seem to find it virtually impossible to have compassion for ourselves.
It’s like we are allergic to compliments, or become as socially awkward as a fart in mass when somebody praises our actions. Just watch that brilliant Aldi ad when the girl is praised about her dress and her first response is “are you serious , this old thing”. I am not saying we should be running around high fiving ourselves every ten minutes but we need to start getting into a habit of practising self-compassion.
Self-compassion is a fundamental foundation of the positive psychology movement, which bases its teachings in science. When we our compassionate to ourselves, our brain release’s chemicals and lifts our mood or dulls our stresses.
The world is an incredibly hostile and difficult place to be in sometimes. Don’t be so hard on yourselves.
We are always trying to reach a certain point and destination, and we often forget to enjoy the journey and experience that comes with it.
My advice, pick one thing a day that you do, that gives you the opportunity to show yourself some self-compassion. You deserve this. Just before you go to sleep, congratulate yourself for this act of love. Just say an internal well done. As you go to sleep you are switching your mind off, full of compassion. It will resonate throughout your heart and your body.
No matter how tough your day was, end your day with some self-compassion.