Meeting your inner critic with self-compassion is an effective strategy to support personal change and growth. As you move toward your intentions, hopes and dreams this season, keep in mind that practicing self-compassion may be one of the most effective things that you can do to help you realize your intentions.
Some people hold the belief that beating up on themselves and not letting themselves off the hook helps them to keep moving toward their goals, but the research on willpower and achieving goals indicates otherwise. Indulging your inner critic may actually hinder your progress toward realizing your intentions and goals.
We find lightness and ease in our lives as we increasingly care for ourselves and other beings. –Sharon Salzberg
When we say or do unkind things to ourselves, it activates the stress response, so the area of the brain that prepares us to run, freeze or fight is activated, and the area of the brain that keeps our best intentions in mind is deactivated. Research also indicates that people who practice self-compassion tend to be happier and have an easier time reaching their goals. Try being kind to yourself this season and every season. Treat yourself as though you were a beloved other. Enjoy the reward of experiencing a greater sense of peace, resilience, and creative flow.
Warmly,
Jen