Self-Compassion Reduces Relationship Strain
I’m human. You are, too, right?
We’re all human, which means we’re bound to make mistakes. But here’s the thing: how you respond to your own missteps can have a huge impact on your relationships. If you’re hard on yourself, that self-critical energy can spill over into your interactions with others. On the other hand, practicing self-compassion can make you more forgiving and empathetic—qualities that strengthen any relationship.
Now, think about how you speak to yourself. Now think about how you speak to your relationship partners. Is it nice and fuzzy and warm? Or are there times where the critical voice comes out?
When you learn to lead with compassion for yourself and others something changes. Your voice changes when you speak to others, your eyes change as you learn to see things through the lens of gratitude and compassion, your ears change as you learn to hear people’s pain.
Think about the last time you made a mistake. Cringe worthy right? Did you beat yourself up over it? Did you say mean things to yourself? Or did you take a moment to say, “It’s okay, I’m doing my best”? Offering yourself that same kindness you’d extend to a friend can transform, not only how you feel, but also how you show up for others.
Challenge: The next time you catch yourself being self-critical, pause and ask, “Would I say this to a close friend? Would I say this to my baby?” If the answer is no, reframe your thoughts with kindness. Learn to treat yourself as you would your own baby. Your relationships will thank you for it.
Be kind to yourself—you’re worth it. Let’s make this journey together!