Let go of selfjudgment and criticism from "summary" of The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion by Christopher K. Germer
When we judge ourselves harshly, we are essentially attacking ourselves. This self-criticism can be so ingrained in our minds that we may not even realize we are doing it. It is like having a constant voice in our heads that points out every mistake, flaw, or imperfection. This relentless self-judgment can take a toll on our mental and emotional well-being, leading to feelings of inadequacy, unworthiness, and shame. To let go of self-judgment and criticism, we must first become aware of our thoughts and the way we speak to ourselves. Mindfulness can help us observe our inner dialogue without getting swept away by it. By tuning into our thoughts and feelings with curiosity and compassion, we can begin to see the patterns of self-judgment that play out in our minds. Once we recognize the presence of self-criticism, we can practice responding to ourselves with kindness and understanding. Instead of berating ourselves for our perceived shortcomings, we can offer ourselves words of encouragement and support. We can treat ourselves as we would a close friend in need – with patience, empathy, and acceptance. It is important to remember that self-compassion does not mean making excuses for our mistakes or avoiding responsibility. Rather, it is about approaching ourselves with an attitude of kindness and forgiveness, recognizing that we are human and imperfect. By letting go of self-judgment and criticism, we create space for growth, learning, and self-improvement. Cultivating self-compassion is a lifelong practice that requires patience, dedication, and self-awareness. It is not always easy to break free from the habit of self-criticism, but with time and practice, we can learn to treat ourselves with the same compassion and understanding we would offer to others. By letting go of self-judgment and criticism, we can foster a sense of inner peace, acceptance, and self-love.
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