Be Kind To Yourself
Have you ever had one of those days where it feels like you can't do anything right and everything you touch turns to mud? Probably.
Feeling like a failure is a common experience that most of us go through at some point in our lives. It can be difficult and painful, but it's important to remember that you are not alone and you aren't a failure. You are so much more than your mistakes and your shortcomings. Deep down you likely already know that, but being kind to yourself when you feel like a failure is like trying to lift twice your body weight. It takes practice and a plan.
Here's the plan:
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
First, be honest with yourself. Allow yourself to feel your emotions and don't try to push them away. Unacknowledged emotions fester and tend to pop up in unhealthy ways. It's okay to feel disappointed or upset when things don't go as planned.
2. Practice Self-Compassion
Give yourself the same kindness, concern, and support that you would offer to a good friend. This means being gentle with yourself and recognizing that everyone makes mistakes. Instead of criticizing yourself, offer yourself words of comfort and encouragement.
3. Reframe Your Thoughts
When things aren’t going well, our thoughts can become negative and self-critical. Try shifting your focus and identifying the positive aspects of the situation. Instead of focusing on what went wrong, focus on what you learned from the experience and how you can use that knowledge to move forward.
4. Treat Yourself
Doing something nice for yourself is a good way to reset after a negative experience. Whether you do something spendy like getting a massage or something simple like having a cup of your favorite tea, take a moment to treat yourself well. Remember that you deserve nice things.
5. Seek Support
Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional can be helpful when you're feeling like a failure. They can offer support, guidance, and a different perspective on the situation.
Above all else, remember, you are not alone and it's okay to make mistakes.
