Where do we look for optimism and hope in uncertain, overwhelming times?
We look within ourselves.
This self-compassion challenge focuses your attention on you in a particular way. Watch as new insights and tangible skills come to life, helping you maintain optimism and hope.
For eight consecutive days you’ll learn new ways check up on how you really are, what you need, what works and what doesn’t. You can’t take care of others if you don’t take care of yourself first. In any case, why shouldn’t you feel better?
Here are eight things to do, one on each day. Follow the instructions carefully for best results.
DAY 1: Breathe Consciously
At least three times today, take three deep breaths and feel your body respond. As you inhale feel the breath fill your body, as you exhale, feel it leave your body, pay attention to the rhythm of your breath, notice its calming effect.
DAY 2: Focus On The Present Moment
Check in three to five times today, to note where your mind is. Are you in the past or future? Acknowledge where you are, with loving kindness gently return to the present. This is where your life is happening and where you have a say in it.
DAY 3: Connect to Your Heart
Place your hand on your chest right over your heart and take a few deep breaths. Keep your attention on sensations here. Return to this observation at least three times today. What are you finding? Notice your emotions change.
DAY 4: Take a Walk With No Destination in Mind
Connect to nature with ALL your senses—what you see, hear, smell, touch, even taste. Notice the birds, squirrels, sky, trees…. Feel your body. Notice your thoughts and feelings. Let go of distracting thoughts and come back to this experience. It takes practice!
DAY 5: Be Grateful
Think of and write down three things you’re grateful for today.
DAY 6: Say No
Allow yourself to say no when it’s what you really want. Let go of old patterns of people pleasing to avoid conflict and listen to your gut. Saying ‘No’ may just be what the other person needs too!
DAY 7: Use Empathy
Empathy is a skill that helps you understand the feelings and thoughts of another so you can decide how to respond in that moment.
When you are in conversation with someone, put yourself in their shoes, see through their eyes. Understand their perspective. Watch what happens inside you.
DAY 8: Accept Yourself
You find peace when you accept yourself as you are right now, flaws and all. By accepting whatever you feel—good or bad—you let go of expectation about how you ‘should’ be. There’s no greater act of self-love.
I’d love to hear how this self compassion challenge is impacting you. Feel free to send me a message and we can talk about it.