Give Yourself Grace

In recent virtual educational sessions with clients, I noticed a strong wave of interest in the need for a higher level of compassion, specifically self-compassion. 

I define compassion as being aware of a need and acting to meet that need or ease the situation. We all have the ability to be compassionate; however, it takes paying attention to see the need and being motivated to make it better. We are more likely to be compassionate and empathetic to others than ourselves. We are so hard on ourselves and sometimes our own worst critics. Why is this? 

Self-compassion isn’t about letting yourself off the hook for emotional responses or making mistakes. It’s about acknowledging that life is sometimes tough, and that we are human, and then giving ourselves some grace. This means forgiving yourself, accepting where you are, being patient with yourself, and considering what you can do better next time.

Extending the same grace to yourself that we do to others helps you be self-compassionate. Put simply, self-compassion means treating yourself like you would a friend, especially in the face of setbacks, mistakes, and failures. It’s an essential strength for resilience.

I often use one of these statements to enhance my positive self-talk to bounce back.

• "I am doing the best I can under these difficult circumstances."

• "I am enough and am doing my best.”

• "May I accept myself exactly as I am right now."

• “You got this, Amy!”

I hope this helps you to enhance your self-compassion and give yourself grace more often.