You have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn’t worked.
Try approving of yourself and see what happens.
– Louise Hay
Don’t you just love this quote? As women, our harsh inner critics can be so loud and demanding. It’s often much harder to cultivate a kind, compassionate inner voice. It’s not something we’re usually taught by society, let alone something that’s modeled for us by the adults in our own lives when we’re kids. So, it lands on us to work on this within ourselves, and therapy is a great place to do this hard work!
Here’s what’s to come in this blog: where self-criticism and self-judgment may stem from, loving and kind mantras for when you’re struggling, and wrapping up with ways to be gentle with yourself. I hope this information is helpful in your own life! Enjoy!
Where self-criticism and self-judgment may stem from:
- Not feeling good about yourself from the inside out
- A past trauma from your life
- Not being happy with your life right here and now
- Feelings or envy and jealousy towards others
- The comparison trap and never feeing good enough and worthy enough
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 would you add to this list?
Ways to be gentle with yourself:
- Journal from a heart-centered, loving and kind place
- Connect with dear friends both near and far
- Read a great book that nurtures your soul
- Do a loving kindness meditation, inward towards yourself and outward towards others
- Prioritize rest and relaxation- more R&R please!
- Talk to a therapist in your area
- Snuggle with your pets
- Go for a walk outside- rain or shine
- Connect with family both near and far
- Do some gentle yoga stretches
What else helps you to be gentle with yourself?
If you’re struggling right now, know that you’re not alone. Many of us struggle with our inner critics on a daily basis. Plus, it can feel difficult to try and create a kinder, more compassionate, inner world to offset this inner judgment. If you could use more help and support in your life, please reach out to your doctor or a therapist in your area (if you don’t already have one). Know that I’m thinking of you and sending lots of love and compassion your way!
