Self-compassion is the term used for being compassionate to ourselves. When we practice self-compassion, we extend the same tolerance and kindness to ourselves as we do to others. For example, we withhold judgment and criticism of ourselves when we make a mistake or notice something about ourselves we don’t like. We treat ourselves with the same gentle support we would give to a friend or a young child.
Self-compassionate people are also more likely to attend to self-care needs without guilt.
There are many benefits of self-compassion. In fact, once we introduce self-compassion into our lives, it can change everything.
What Is Self-Compassion?
Self-compassion is not to be confused with being selfish, self-centered, or with having high self-esteem. Though there are some similarities, these are each very distinct and different qualities.
When we are self-compassionate, we do not see ourselves as better than others.
Or as more important than others.
And it certainly doesn’t mean we fail to be considerate of other people’s needs.
All it means is that we treat ourselves fairly, and with unconditional love.
What are the Benefits
Some of the key benefits of self-compassion, confirmed by science, are listed below. It’s easy to see why we must embrace the concept and the practice – both for our own good and the good of the world! So for those of you who need more reasons to do it, see the list below. Those who practice self-compassion…:
- Are more likely to be healthy, live a long life, and have enhanced immune responses.
- Often are more likely to be happy, optimistic, curious, agreeable and conscientious. It also means you are more likely to take initiative.
- Have more positive thoughts in the present moment. Positive thoughts have been proven to lead to positive outcomes, both for you and those around you.
- Experience a heightened state that increases endorphin and serotonin production. Both promote an overall feeling of well-being.
- Have a natural influence on those around them, prompting them to be kinder to themselves and to others.
- Are less likely to judge themselves; as this happens, they are less likely to judge others.
- Rely less on others to validate our own self-worth.
- Forgive themselves for past mistakes; as they forgive themselves, they also find it easier to forgive others.
- Are slower to exhibit anxiety, anger, and aggression.
- Are more likely to view life events as stepping-stones to opportunity – and recover more quickly from setbacks.
Why Self-Compassion Is Important
We try to be everything we can be to others in our lives. Let’s be there for ourselves and each other, too. Please comment on this post and share how this makes you feel. We are all so much more than enough!
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a health care executive and 15 years (and counting) as a consultant. The common thread through Joan’s professional life has been a commitment to lead, mentor and coach current and future leaders, and women from all walks of life. KindCompassCoach provides information and advice grounded in Joan’s personal experience; however, all articles are backed by research and provide facts and advice from a wide variety of experts. Joan also serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
4 Responses
Love this!! Self compassion is something we all lack at times and it’s nice to be reminded that every now and again we should stop for a minute and show some compassion towards ourselves as well.
I love your posts! I’m currently having a real hard time enjoying my dayjob, so whenever I’m in need of some positivity I visit your blog! Xxx
I really needed this today. Thank you for a beautiful and well constructed post. I love the way you lay everything out. Your writing flows incredibly well. Thank you once again! I feel uplifted !!
Thank you so much Rachael! Your comment made me smile!
Hi Joan, it’s been a while. It’s funny how certain things reappear in life right when you need them the most. Today I had a very challenging day at work – my work is always challenging in a good way but sometimes I let my perfectionism get the best of me. Today was one of those days and lo I see your post here about the importance of self compassion. Something to practice and remember, now. Thank you!