Are you kinder to your friends than to yourself? Many of us are.

We lack self-compassion.

Being self-compassionate is simply turning compassion inward. We treat ourselves with kindness and understanding rather than being harshly self-critical when we don’t get things right or we’re having a tough time. Instead of being judgemental of ourselves, we give ourselves support and encouragement (like we would to a friend or loved one).

Research tells us that self-compassion is one of the most powerful sources of coping and resilience we have available to us. Self-compassion can:

• Improve your mental wellbeing
• Improve your physical wellbeing
• Motivate you to make changes
• Help you reach goals

We know that having “compassion” for another person involves the following things:

1. You notice they are suffering.
2. You might feel moved by others’ suffering so that your heart responds to their pain. The word compassion literally means ‘to suffer with.’ You might feel warmth, caring, kindness or a desire to help (not to judge harshly).
3. You realise that suffering, failure and imperfection is part of the shared human experience.

When you are having a hard time, being self-compassionate means acting in this same way towards YOURSELF. It is not self-pity. It is not self-indulgence. It does mean doing things in a different way, though.

Instead of ignoring your pain with a “suck it up” mentality, being self-compassionate means you stop to tell yourself…

“This is really difficult for me right now. How can I comfort and care for myself in this moment?”

Dr Kristin Neff is a research psychologist who has made it her mission to study self-compassion. Continue your journey towards a more compassionate self on her website here:

• Videos about self-compassion: https://self-compassion.org/videos/
• Guided practices and exercises: https://self-compassion.org/category/exercises/#guided-meditations

Tips for practicing self-compassion: https://self-compassion.org/tips-for-practice/

How to Access a Psychologist at CQ Psych Services:

• Contact us directly by calling 07 4972 6929 or email admin@cqpsychservices.com.au
• Ask your GP or health professional to refer you to our clinic.
• Come in and see our friendly staff at Shop 1 & 2, 13 Tank Street, Gladstone QLD 4680.
• Visit our website and complete a ‘Request an Appointment’ form and one of our friendly staff will reply to your enquiry. Website: https://cqpsychservices.com.au/

Author: Kelsie Realf

Psychologist