Self-compassion is a skill that we can work to intentionally develop. One of your self-compassion practices is called the self- Compassion break. All you're doing is intentionally calling the mind the three components of mindfulness, common humanity, kindness toward an instance of suffering. It's like a three-lay good stool. You need all three.
Self-compassion isn't selfish, says psychologist Kristin Neff, a pioneer in research on the topic. Kristin busts cultural myths about self-compassion, such as the idea that it makes us lazy or self-indulgent, and explains why it’s actually a more effective motivational tool than self-criticism. She also breaks down why fostering more self-compassion is a better strategy than trying to boost self-esteem and offers some simple practices for being kinder to ourselves.
If you enjoyed this episode, we recommend this one from the archives: “The Science of Our Inner Voice.”
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