If you think self-compassion makes you weak, or believe you need to be tough on yourself to stay motivated, research shows the opposite is true.
Self-compassion actually increases resilience – your ability to bounce back from adversity and face challenges with strength and determination. This challenges the harmful lesson many of us learned: that being tough on ourselves is the only strategy for success.
Resilience is not built through self-criticism or harsh judgment. It’s fostered through understanding, patience, and a supportive inner dialogue with yourself. When you learn to treat yourself compassionately, you’re more likely to pick yourself up after setbacks and face challenges with courage and determination.
This is because self-compassion provides emotional safety. When you know that you’ll treat yourself kindly even if you fail or make mistakes, you’re more willing to take healthy risks and try new things. Self-criticism, on the other hand, creates fear and makes you more likely to avoid challenges or give up when things get difficult.
The strength that comes from self-compassion is sustainable and genuine, unlike the temporary motivation that comes from fear-based self-criticism. Fear-based motivation burns out quickly and often leads to avoidance, while compassion-based motivation is renewable and encourages growth.
Self-compassion can be a key component in healing from past traumas, building resilience, and cultivating a positive self-image. It may take time and practice, especially for those of us who weren’t shown compassion in our early years, but the benefits are profound.
You deserve the lasting strength that comes from treating yourself with kindness. Self-compassion isn’t giving up on yourself. It’s giving yourself the support you need to keep going, even when things are difficult. When you treat yourself compassionately, you create an internal environment where growth and healing can flourish. You deserve that kind of support from yourself.
Continue your healing journey with Toxic by Jackie Poet a compassionate guide to understanding and overcoming the lasting effects of childhood trauma.
