Self Kindness in the New Year
The start of a new year is a flurry of reflections and setting goals for self-improvement. However, as well intentioned those New Years Resolutions may be, it can set us on a slippery path of viewing ourselves as only deficits that need improvement. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life and to be hard on ourselves when we make mistakes or don't meet our own expectations. Rather than focusing on what you don’t have enough of, how about focusing on self-kindness this new year? Practicing self-kindness is important for our overall well-being and can lead to a happier and healthier life.
Self-kindness involves treating ourselves with the same care and understanding that we would offer to a good friend. It means being gentle with ourselves, rather than harsh and critical. Research has shown that self-compassion can lead to increased resilience, better mental health outcomes, and improved physical health.
So, how can you start practicing self-kindness in the new year? Here are a few tips:
Be mindful of your self-talk. How do you talk to yourself when things don't go as planned or when you make a mistake? Do you berate yourself or speak kindly to yourself? Try to catch yourself when you're being negative and instead offer yourself some compassion and understanding. Instead of saying things like "I'm such an idiot," try saying something like "Everyone makes mistakes, and that's okay."
Set boundaries. It's important to make time for yourself and to say no to things that drain your energy or that aren't aligned with your values. Setting boundaries allows you to prioritize your own well-being and helps to prevent burnout. It's okay to take a break, to turn down an invitation, or to delegate tasks.
Practice gratitude. Focusing on the things that you're thankful for can help to shift your perspective and make you feel more positive. Make a point to regularly express gratitude, whether it's through a gratitude journal or simply telling someone in your life that you appreciate them.
Take care of your physical health. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising are all important for overall well-being. Make self-care a priority and don't be afraid to seek help if you're struggling with your physical health. This might mean seeing a therapist, joining a gym, or simply taking a few minutes each day to do something that brings you joy, like reading a book or going for a walk.
Seek support. It's okay to ask for help when you need it. Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up and offer understanding and compassion. This might mean reaching out to a trusted friend or family member, joining a support group, or seeing a therapist.
Practicing self-kindness can take time and effort, but it's worth it. By being kind to ourselves, we can build self-confidence, improve our relationships, and lead a more fulfilling life. Start incorporating these tips into your daily routine and see how it improves your overall well-being.
Remember, it's okay to be imperfect. No one is perfect, and it's important to give ourselves grace and understanding when we make mistakes. By practicing self-kindness, we can learn to be more forgiving of ourselves and to see our imperfections as opportunities for growth and self-improvement. So, be kind to yourself this year, and see how it transforms your life. If you’d like to speak to a therapist about your thoughts for the new year, please contact us to schedule a phone consultation.