Pause, Pivot & Proceed on World Compassion Day.. Episode #130

Welcome back, 

Today is World Compassion Day.

The challenges of life affect us all regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, social status, or economic background. Each of us can use assistance or words of encouragement during such trying times.

Sometimes, all people need is a little compassion… but not everyone knows how to show it.

If you’re one of them… you're in the right place! If you're trying to understand what it means to be compassionate and how to show compassion to yourself and others in practical ways… we’ve got the answer.  Just keep reading & listening.

What Is Compassion?

Compassion comes from the Latin word, “compati” and literally means “suffer with.” Compassionate people have the ability to show concern for the misfortunes of others. It could be anyone, adult or child, who's in trouble, sick, hungry, unhoused, or has some other unmet need. When confronted with the struggles, sufferings, or failures of others, they feel strongly motivated, almost compelled, to emotionally take on their “pain” or ease the burden.

Why It's Important to be Compassionate

Displaying compassion can help improve the current mental or physical state, feelings, or situation of someone else. Offering a hug or a word of encouragement, in that moment of crisis, can positively change the lives of those who feel vulnerable. They may feel motivated to find solutions they haven't considered because of their current mental state.

How to Show Compassion to Yourself

Self-compassion means showing yourself love and kindness the same way you do for others. Ironically, big-hearted people often unintentionally overlook the need to address their personal sufferings. These self-compassion tips are bound to help you be kinder toward yourself.

1. Recognize you, too, are human

Everyone makes mistakes, some bigger than others. If your spouse or friend made similar mistakes, you may even tell them, “To err is human,” so they can feel better about themselves. Recognize that this same proverb applies to you. It may just so happen that you're not around people who can assure you that we all mess up from time to time. At times like these, you'll need to be your biggest cheerleader and biggest fan.

2. Quit beating up on yourself

You're quick to comfort others when they make mistakes, fail, or feel hurt. Rather than judging them harshly, you soothe and encourage them. Yet, you judge yourself harshly and carry around self-blame, guilt, or shame. Harsh self-criticism or self-bullying can erode your peace of mind and self-esteem. Stop being so hard on yourself. Be your best friend, not your harshest critic.

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3. Acknowledge your struggles

It seems easy to just ignore the obstacles or negative emotions you face. Unprocessed emotions will remain there until they are properly dealt with. Catch yourself in the moment and admit that you're having a really difficult time.

 Next, think of healthy ways to comfort yourself. Repeating affirmations such as, “I accept myself for who I am, regardless of my shortcomings,” helps reinforce seeing yourself in a positive light.

4. Forgive yourself

Our relationship with ourselves sets the pace for relationships with others. Self-forgiveness means to quit punishing yourself for missteps. It allows you to let go, something that helps bring healing and peace of mind. People may be more willing to “bury the hatchet” with you because you don't hold grudges against yourself.

5. Accept that you're not perfect

You cannot get exactly what you want 100% of the time. Denial of this reality is a source of frustration, self-criticism, stress, and persistent personal dissatisfaction. I often say to myself, “I love how perfectly imperfect I am,” and even laugh at myself when I mess up. Taking this perspective enables you to be kinder and more gentle with yourself whenever you miss the mark.

6. Practice mindfulness

The tendency to ruminate and worry about the present, past, and future is linked to anxiety. Mindfulness is a form of meditation that challenges you to live in the present moment. One of the principles is accepting things for what they are, which can lessen your tendency to self-judge or put negative labels on your thoughts, emotions, and feelings.

~ Sonya



Sonya Janisse

Design your Life, your way Accountability Coach  

NLP, HWL, PTS

Accountability Coach ~ I help you keep your promises to yourself.
Taking your life from unbearable to unstoppable. xo
Author, Podcaster, Certified Coach

Fresh Approach Fitness, a Wellness Company

Call or Text 226-377-0799 | [email protected]

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