The Power of Self-Compassion
Have you experienced any of the following during a tough school year?:
Becoming consumed by feelings of inadequacy when you fail at something important to you.
Having difficulty pausing to give yourself the caring tenderness you need, even when you’re going through a hard time.
Having difficulty keeping your emotions in balance when something upsets you.
If so, you are far from alone. Many teachers struggle with the same.
A daily practice of self-compassion can help.
Read on for 3 major benefits teachers can experience when they commit to practicing self-compassion (plus 2 quotes from others and 1 question for you to consider this week).
Want to start practicing self-compassion? Get started with the “30 Days of Self-Compassion” ebook here.
3 Benefits of Self-Compassion
I.
Lower levels of anxiety and depression. Self-compassionate people notice when they are suffering and are kind to themselves through the suffering. This can decrease anxiety and depression related to the suffering. Self-compassion whispers, “You are feeling really worried right now, and it’s painful and I’m so sorry you are feeling that. But remember that it’s only human to feel worried in situations like this. You are strong and will get through this.”
II.
Improved physical health. Self-compassionate people tend to have healthier relationships with food, exercise and sleep. When we are self-compassionate, we can practice accepting ourselves just as we are, while lovingly encouraging ourselves to make healthy choices for our bodies. Self-compassion calmly says, “You are deserving of nutritious food, of the time to move your body, and of a relaxing evening routine. After all, every human needs to fill their cup to feel and work and be their best”.
III.
It helps us develop a growth mindset. Teachers love to talk growth mindset for their students, but how do you talk to yourself when you fail? Do you see it as an opportunity to learn, or do you get down on yourself? Self-compassion helps us build trust with ourselves while calming the voice of our inner critic. When we fail or make mistakes, an inner critic might say, “You’re so dumb, who makes stupid mistakes like that?” while self-compassion gently tells us, “I’m so sorry you’re feeling badly about that mistake. That’s really hard, but everyone makes mistakes - What can I learn from this mistake for next time?” Self-compassion is a key component to developing that growth mindset, and helping us bounce back and learn from our missteps faster.
2 Quotes from Others
I.
“Try to feel compassion for how difficult it is to be an imperfect human being in this extremely competitive society of ours.” - Kristin Neff
II.
“So why is self-compassion a more effective motivator than self-criticism? Because its driving force is love, not fear.” - Kristin Neff
1 Question For You
Which of these 3 benefits would you most like to experience this school year?
Make sure to share this week’s 3-2-1 with a teacher you care about :)
Until next week,
Emily Hemmingson
Health Coach for Teachers
Start Practicing with the “30 Days of Self-Compassion” Ebook
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