I think kindness is important. I think in this big world we live in there just really isn’t enough of it. Many of us were brought up to think of others first, to be unselfish, to put others needs ahead of our own. And this is a good thing. I think there is room for even more kindness to give to others and to the world, for sure.
But it’s also important when we think about kindness to remember to also be kind to ourselves. How does that make you feel? Does it make you uncomfortable to think about being kind to yourself? Especially if you were taught your whole life the value of kindness to others, the thought of self-kindness can be a little uncomfortable. It may even feel a little selfish.
Self-kindness is not selfish. It’s a necessary part of living a happy life. Of living a life that is impactful to others in a positive way. The truth is that when we practice self-kindness we’re actually better equipped to help the people and the world around us. Think on that a minute. When we take care of ourselves we are BETTER EQUIPPED to help the people and the world around us.
So, my encouragement for you today is to practice self-kindness. Let go of self-judgement. Speak to yourself with the same compassion you would give to someone else. Give yourself permission to be imperfect. Be patient with yourself. Accept yourself for the miracle that you are. For today, and for every day – be kind to yourself.