Self-compassion Week 2

"You yourself, as much as anybody in the universe, deserve your love and affection."

The Budda

Many of us find ourselves being over critical when we make a mistake. Thoughts such as, I’m an idiot or how can I be this stupid, or other self-deprecating statements, have become the norm.  Dr. Ethan Cross, author of the book Chatter, recommends utilizing the pronoun "you" or referring to oneself by first name when addressing errors or engaging in self-critical reflection.  He calls it distanced self-talk. The next time you make a mistake, try taking a breath and treating yourself with self-compassion. Reframe your self-talk to, “You can do better”, or “that error can be rectified when You take more time.” Just as you would if offering feedback to someone else. 

During a previous training session, participants were asked to imagine themselves as a young child or view a photo of themselves before the age of five. This was before you developed the habit of seeing your faults instead of valuing what you are. As you do this exercise, reflect on what you see in the picture. You may revive a more optimistic attitude, rekindling what makes you unique, taking a step in the direction of practicing more self-compassion, which as the Budda says you deserve!