Today’s topic is much needed.
A lot of research supports how self-compassion – kindness toward self – is more helpful than self-esteem.
Have you received messages that you need to feel good about yourself?
Feeling good about yourself is usually based on how your performance, looks, and talents measure up in relation to others – not your innate goodness.
Self-esteem is based on judgment and comparison – am I good or bad?
High self-esteem is based on the notion that you are special and above average.
Not exactly healthy and certainly doesn’t value the virtues of mindfulness like non-judgment, acceptance, and connectedness.
Self-compassion is embracing ourselves – flaws and all.
Enter Dr. Kristin Neff, Associate Professor of at University of Texas and lead researcher on self-compassion.
Dr. Neff recently led a 15 minute live compassion meditation for us. Thank you so much!
All of my clients in the Freedom from Chronic Stress Coaching Program are required to watch Dr. Neff’s TED Talk about self-compassion.
Watch it here.
Be gentle and kind with yourself.
It is not indulgent, selfish, or lazy.
Shift from self-aversion to self-compassion and it will be easier to be gentle with yourself and restore the connection with you and the rest of humanity. We’re all in the same boat, friends.
Stop Looking Outside and Look Within,
Angela
