Self-Compassion for Skeptics
Hi friend,
As you probably know by now, self-compassion is one of my very favorite topics to write and teach about (OK, OK, and proselytize about 🙂). This is because, in addition to being the #1 skill about which my clients and students are initially most skeptical, it is also the one that proves to be most POWERFUL in terms of maximizing both their well-being and their professional performance.
So I am super excited that my Self-Compassion Activity Guide will be featured as the Friday Activity for this year’s Well-Being Week in Law (coming up on May 1-5).
In the guide, which you can download here, you will find more information about:
What self-compassion is
How it differs from (and why it’s actually much more valuable than) self-esteem
The manifold benefits of practicing self-compassion
Science-backed research demonstrating that, far from rendering you weak, lazy, or complacent, self-compassion will actually turbocharge your motivation, sense of responsibility and accountability, and capacity to support others
Two simple but super effective strategies for cultivating self-compassion (regardless of how scathing/powerful your inner critic currently is)
The reason I know this works – even for the most skeptical of skeptics – is because I’ve done it myself. For most of my life, my inner critic was so ruthless that I am honestly a bit alarmed and ashamed to admit that I was capable of treating anyone that viciously, even if it was myself. And for years (extremely painful years), I poo-pooed the idea of self-compassion, convinced that:
It would definitely make me lose my edge; and
Even if the science was true, and even if self-compassion theoretically could serve as an effective motivator, it was not a viable option for me because my inner critic was so ingrained that she was definitely not going anywhere.
It was only when I reached a point of real desperation that I finally agreed to give it a try. And within just a few weeks, I was truly astounded by the transformative effects that ensued.
After only a short period of consistent practice, the self-compassionate thoughts that had initially felt so forced and implausible started to come more naturally. And eventually, they started popping up all on their own. Moreover, as the self-compassionate voice grew stronger, my inner critic’s voice began to weaken, ultimately transforming the way I related to myself over all.
Perhaps most surprising and exciting, rather than dulling my drive, determination, or commitment to excellence, embracing self-compassion actually empowered me to rise to levels of performance and growth (as well as joy, meaning, and connection) that I honestly never imagined possible.
So I highly encourage you to check out the guide and to give the activities a try.
And if you’re interested in attending webinars and/or receiving additional exercises and resources to promote all aspects of your well-being, I encourage you to register for Well-Being Week in Law here.
Finally, as always, if these exercises resonate with you or if you feel like you could benefit from additional support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to let me know.
With love,
Jordana
