Love YOU This Year: 3 Easy Ways to Show Yourself Self-Compassion & Self-Love Mindfulness

Happy New Year! What if instead of the usual laundry list of goals like lose weight, exercise more and other forms of self-chastising “shoulds,” you decided to just love yourself better?

Instead of just ignoring your pain with a "tough it out" mentality, you stop to tell yourself, "This is really difficult right now. How can I comfort and care for myself in this moment?" Instead of mercilessly judging and criticizing yourself for various inadequacies or shortcomings, self-compassion means you are kind and understanding when confronted with personal failings. After all, who ever said you were supposed to be perfect?

You may try to change in ways that allow you to be healthier and happier, but this is done because you care about yourself, not because you are worthless or unacceptable as you are. Perhaps most importantly, having compassion for yourself means you honor and accept your humanness.

Here are my top three self-compassionate resolutions:

• Embrace the Yin and Yang of Self-Compassion: Unfortunately, many of us spend a lot of time worrying about whether our personal way of being in the world is too much or not enough. In thinking about the Yin and Yang of self-compassion, consider accepting yourself and your energetic way of being as “just right,” just as you are. Keep your eye on the ball of focusing on self-compassion, whether it’s the soft kind or the fierce kind.

• Treat Yourself Like You Would Your Dearest Friend: When a friend we love is going through a tough time or not feeling their best, we go out of our way to lift their spirits, encourage them and let them know they are loved. In 2022, commit to treating yourself like your very best friend. Shower yourself with compassion and understanding.

• Take Time Away From the 24-Hour News Cycle: Give yourself permission to step away, turn off the TV, and steer clear of political social media streams when you need a break. Take this time to do something positive and impactful instead – something that makes you feel good and helps others. Volunteer in your community. Donate to a charity for a cause you’re passionate about.

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