Weekly Affirmation: Nurturing Self-Compassion in Challenging Times

Published on 10 October 2024 at 18:00

As we honor World Mental Health Day, I’m reminded of how crucial self-compassion is for our overall well-being. It's something I’ve been working on and want to improve in my own life. It’s so easy to become our own harshest critic—something I struggle with myself—but learning to be kind to ourselves during difficult moments is what allows us to heal, grow, and move forward with greater strength and peace. My personal goal is to cultivate more peace in my life, as my mind often feels chaotic.

Caring for our mental health isn't just about taking breaks or engaging in self-care; it’s also about how we treat ourselves every day. Do we forgive ourselves for mistakes? Do we offer ourselves the same grace we so easily extend to others? How would you answer those questions?

For me, I know the answer isn’t always yes. But that’s why I’m here—to grow, to work on this, and to invite YOU to do the same. I truly believe it gets easier with practice; it’s just about finding what works for us individually. That’s why this week’s affirmation is centered on self-compassion—because to thrive, we must first learn to be kind to ourselves.

weekly affirmation

“I am doing the best I can, and that’s enough.”

This affirmation is a powerful reminder that we’re all human, and too often, we place impossible standards on ourselves, expecting perfection in everything we do. But here’s the truth: it’s okay not to be perfect. In fact, recognizing that you’re doing your best, even when things don’t go as planned, is an incredible show of strength. Because at the end of the day, only you know the battles you’re facing.

Life has a way of piling on pressure—whether it’s the mental hurdles we face just to accomplish basic tasks, or the added weight of work, clients, and daily demands. (And yes, I love my clients too, but we can all agree it can be exhausting to stay “on” all the time.) It’s these unseen struggles that can truly take a toll on our mental health.

When those tough days come—and they will—I want you to remember this affirmation. Remind yourself that some days require more rest, more patience, and more grace. And that’s okay. You are enough, just as you are. I see you. Even when it feels like the world doesn’t, I do. I know what it’s like to feel invisible; to struggle in silence and feel unseen for so long. But you are not alone in this.

Take it from someone who’s been there: You deserve to give yourself the same compassion and understanding that you offer to others. You are enough, and you are seen.

practical application

Here are a few ways you can begin practicing self-compassion this week:

 

  • Mindfulness in the Moment – When you start to feel overwhelmed or catch yourself being overly critical, pause. Take a deep breath and ask yourself, “What would I say to a friend in this situation?” Then offer that same kindness to yourself. It’s important to remember that we would never treat a friend the way we sometimes treat ourselves. And if we do, are we truly being a good friend?

  • Journaling – Set aside 5-10 minutes to journal your thoughts without judgment. Let your feelings spill onto the page. At the end, make it a point to write down one thing you’re proud of or something you’re grateful for. If your thoughts are particularly negative, I invite you to write them all down, then find a safe way to release them—maybe even by burning the pages. It can be a powerful way to let go of what’s weighing you down.

  • Small Acts of Kindness – Do something small yet kind for yourself. It could be as simple as making your favorite drink, taking a walk in nature, or giving yourself permission to step away from your to-do list. Acts of self-care are acts of compassion. And yes, sometimes it’s okay to treat yourself to a little indulgence, like grabbing that favorite coffee. For me, it’s a way to be kind to myself without overspending, and it feels like a treat when I need it most. I also enjoy a ride on my motorcycle—it’s a personal escape where I can either let my thoughts flow or simply enjoy the moment. Whether it's big or small, find what works for you. You deserve it. I deserve it. We ALL deserve it!

 

conclusion

In a world that often encourages us to strive for perfection, practicing self-compassion is essential for our mental health and overall well-being. It allows us to embrace our imperfections and recognize that it’s okay to have challenging days. By incorporating mindfulness, journaling, and small acts of kindness into our daily routines, we can cultivate a more compassionate relationship with ourselves.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. We’re all navigating the ups and downs of life together. Let’s continue to support one another in our efforts to be kinder to ourselves, allowing space for growth, healing, and peace. Together, we can make self-compassion a priority—not just for ourselves, but for each other.

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