Self-compassion involves treating yourself with a certain level of kindness and understanding. Emotional resilience refers to the ability to recover from challenges or stressful situations.

Both of these are powerful and necessary skills for managing day-to-day stressors. Being adaptable to change and flexible in your actions will help ensure a greater quality of life. Consistent practice is key to fine-tuning each of these skills. Here’s how you can get started.

Practice Self-Kindness

We are often our own harshest critics. It’s no secret that the world throws a lot of curveballs our way. There’s no need to add to our plates ourselves.

Imagine a friend or family member approaching you with their situation. How would you respond to them? Would you be overly critical or judgmental? Most likely not.

Treat yourself with the same level of compassion you would offer to them. Instead of internally criticizing yourself, replace those thoughts with more positive sentiments. Give yourself encouraging, positive self-talk. Show yourself understanding and grace.

When you make a mistake, take a moment to remind yourself that everyone does it. Why should you be punished for it? Learn to forgive yourself and use these opportunities for personal growth and development.

Practice Mindfulness

Your thoughts and feelings matter in any situation. Start paying attention to what you’re thinking, what sensations you have, and any emotions that develop.

Rather than dismiss these things, use them to enhance your awareness of challenging experiences. Recognize that you’re feeling pain or distress. Acceptance and acknowledgement will help you process them effectively.

Tuning in to what’s going on inside you will help you better identify your needs and wants. This will help increase your resiliency.

Understand the Shared Human Experience

Challenges and the corresponding emotions are a normal part of life. It’s what makes us human.  Start reminding yourself that it’s ok to feel things and that you’re in good company.

Don’t isolate yourself in attempts to avoid certain feelings that come up. Use this opportunity to connect with others who are sharing your experience and can offer their perspective. Seek insight from others who have fresh eyes on the matter.

As you gain an enhanced understanding, be sure to share that with others around you. You never know who else is struggling and could use your kindness.

Take Compassion Breaks

When you feel like you’re hitting an emotional wall, take a moment for yourself. Self-compassion breaks can give you a quick fix for managing what’s going on internally.

Step away to a quieter place and start by focusing on your breathing. Take slower, deeper breaths to help calm your nervous system. You can use a guided breathing technique, like box breathing, to help focus your efforts. You can also take a page out of the yoga handbook and place one hand on your heart and the other on your stomach. The sensation of your inhale and your heartbeat can be soothing.

Seek Support

Cultivating self-compassion and emotional resilience isn’t something that needs to be done alone. These are instances where you should be leaning on your trusted friends and family. Don’t be afraid to be open and honest about your feelings.

If you’re in a place where you feel stuck, consider working with a professionally trained therapist. Together, we can explore ways that you can express your feelings more effectively and practice implementing these tips in your everyday life.

Establishing self-compassion and emotional resilience is a long-term journey. Integration is a step-by-step process. You may not see results instantly, but trust in the process. To learn more about life transitions counseling, reach out to us to get started.

Contact Us