How to Be Kind to Yourself
Recently I’ve been reading my old journals. The #1 difference I notice between my past and present is the way I talk to myself. Self-talk.
Old journals have scribbled, “Why do you keep doing this?” to current journals reading, “You’ve got this, Dev.”
My relationship with myself has changed drastically over the years and I continue to work on it.
Instead of berating myself for making mistakes, I’m MUCH more self-compassionate and forgiving.
I tear up reading how I used to treat and talk to myself. No wonder I was depressed. I was mean to myself and walked on eggshells based on other people’s opinions and judgments of me – and the worst critic was in my own head.
I tried to be perfect to “gain approval” and then one slip, and bam…I’d scold myself and tell myself things horrible things.
I’m not perfect now, nor do I strive to be. I make mistakes but I don’t rake myself over the coals like I used to. I still get upset with myself but now I tell myself, “THAT was not good,” instead of “YOU are not good.”
Be kind to yourself. Forgive yourself. Treat yourself like you would a great friend. Your relationship with yourself is the most important relationship there is. Nourish it every day – self-kindness has a huge impact on your mental health and has a positive ripple effect on everyone around you.
“Her own thoughts and reflections were habitually her best companions.” – Jane Austen
How to talk to yourself? Do you have self-compassion, or does your inner critic run the show?
I’d love to hear from you….leave a comment below.
Kindness goes a long way, especially when it’s directed at yourself.
Love,
Devon