Is being kind to ourselves. It is a way of relating to ourselves and realizing that we’re human. Humans make mistakes. Humans are not perfect. 

“You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection.” Buddha

How we see things is based on our frame, values, background, experience and perception of our reality and this is not an objective view.  Our negative inner voice often tells us a story that is skewed. If we don’t take the time to question it then we may lose a learning opportunity for ourselves. 

Kristin Neff, the author of the book Self-Compassion states that self-compassion means being gentle, kind and understanding with yourself. Accepting that you are not perfect and that there is potential for learning and growth in every mistake that you make. 

It’s easy to say but how do you put it into practice?

1. Turn your inner voice or inner critic into a source of support for learning. We can listen to increase our knowledge and clarity about our fears or what we see as limitations or things holding us back.
2. Acknowledge mistakes and shortcomings by being gentle with yourself. We’re human, we make mistakes, we are not perfect. Forgive yourself, let it go, learn and move on. 
3. Use the power of gratitude, appreciate what you have, acknowledge your successes, celebrate your learnings. Celebrate you.
4. Be mindful. Stop judging yourself and embrace and have compassion for yourself. Acknowledge your emotions, feel through them and appreciate the moment.

With self-compassion, we can embrace ourselves with kindness and give ourselves the support needed to provide the conditions for growth and transformation.