Kindness is always fashionable, and always welcome.
-Amelia Barr
How are you doing this week? Has your inner critic (you know, that inner voice that’s based in criticism and judgment) been loud? This has definitely been the case with me. If you’re in the same boat, do you know where it’s stemming from or has it taken you by surprise? For me, it’s a combination of being in transition (small apartment without our stuff) while we wait for our household goods to return from overseas, and nursing a shoulder injury that’s been flaring up lately (don’t you love how stress so often shows up physically in our bodies?). All this leaves me feeling a bit grumpier and more critical than normal.
So, what’s the offset to feeling this way? For me, it’s tapping into loving kindness and compassion for myself and others. This gentle voice sounds something like, “of course you’re not feeling like yourself right now, being in transition is hard for all of us” or “physical pain can be really hard to deal with, especially when you’re not in the comfort of your own home.” Does this resonate with you too?
Read on for some short, quick information on: where criticism and judgment may stem from, loving and kind mantras for when you’re struggling, and wrapping up with ways to be gentle with yourself.
Where criticism and judgment may stem from:
- Not feeling good about yourself
- A past trauma
- Not being happy with your life
- Feelings of envy and jealousy
- The comparison trip
What else would you add here?
Loving and kind mantras for when you’re struggling:
- I am worthy
- I am enough
- I am authentically me
- I live in my own truth
- I value myself
- I am loved
What other mantras work well for you when you’re struggling?
Ways to be gentle and kind with yourself:
- Journal
- Do a loving kindness meditation
- Go for a walk
- Prioritize rest and relaxation
- Connect with dear friends
- Talk to a therapist
- Connect with family
- Read a great book
- Snuggle with your pets
- Do some yoga stretches
What else helps you to be gentle and kind with yourself?
If your inner critic is showing up loudly right now, know that you’re not alone. Please reach out to your doctor or therapist for more help and support. I’m sending lots of love and compassion your way as you work towards adding more loving kindness into your life.
