Self-compassion is not just a buzzword. It is an essential and scientifically proven skill. Research by psychologist Kristin Neff shows that people who practice self-compassion are more resilient and experience greater emotional balance. And that is especially helpful when life feels chaotic.
What does self-compassion mean?
Self-compassion is not just about taking good care of yourself; it also means looking at yourself with kindness and understanding when life becomes difficult or challenging.
Self-compassion helps you accept your vulnerabilities and deal with setbacks constructively. After all, you don’t always have to be strong, and you can’t do everything ‘perfectly.’
How do you practice self-compassion in a vulnerable world?
It can be challenging to have compassion in a world that seems increasingly on edge. Wars, the climate crisis, social inequality—these are enormous challenges that affect us daily.
In such an unsettled world, it can feel like you constantly have to struggle to keep your head above water. The question is: how do you stay grounded when everything around you is changing?
Self-compassion in hectic times
Practicing self-compassion can be a source of support, helping you recognize that you don’t have to control everything.
Your ability to show compassion for yourself not only reduces stress but also gives you the strength to pursue change—both for yourself and others.
It provides the energy to take care of yourself while also contributing to the change you want to see in the world. The more you embody this, the greater the ripple effect. Showing compassion can change the world, step by step.
How do you deal with (big) worries?
In this video, Neff explains how compassion can help make the chaotic world more bearable:
Tip: Her meditation exercise Fierce Friend helps you connect with your inner, compassionate friend who supports you in transforming worries into action and change.
Or try this: Join one of our (free) self-compassion meditations
Image: Raphael Brasileiro via Pexels
