In our individualistic, judgmental, hard-charging, win at all costs world; compassion is not well-practiced or something that I’ve seen as a priority. However, I believe when we practice it consistently, and embody it, it can give us everything we are searching and pushing so hard for. Compassion allows us to loosen the grips of fear that hold us in constant judgment, and allows us to see ourselves and others through a different lens.
Read MoreIt has been quite a year for many of us. A challenging year of great change and uncertainty. As you pause and reflect on this changing of the season and the new year that is approaching; consider, how can you look forward to the future holding onto hope? This is a great time to create a hopeful view of the future and work backward to understand what you can do during this change of the seasons and in these remaining weeks of the year to create that future.
Read MoreGrowth is change and change causes discomfort but staying stagnant may cause even more pain even though it may feel like comfortable pain. It is a place we know, so we feel okay staying there even though it can be so incredibly painful. Finding ways to respond and work through the discomfort is imperative to growing and changing in ways we want to change or grow. I have noticed a pattern emerge when I’m working through new challenges or the discomfort of change and growth. It is a little process for growth consisting of Curiosity, Courage, and Compassion.
Read MoreKristen Neff, a compassion researcher, explains compassion as opening our hearts to our own pain and suffering, offering understanding and kindness upon failure or mistakes, and recognizing the shared human experience. It hasn’t always been clear to me what self-compassion is because my inner critic was such a trusted voice throughout my life. With enough new information and fresh perspectives and practice, we can transform the thoughts we generate, listen to, and trust to cultivate self-compassion and love all the parts of ourselves.
Read MoreTo have compassion for others, we must first have compassion for ourselves and continue to notice when we are judging ourselves in elusive and hidden ways. Practicing self-compassion helps us discover and overcome our self-defeating criticism and judgement and spur desired growth.
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