There is lots of research that demonstrates the power of practicing self-compassion. Self-compassion is the act of us expressing concern, empathy and love to ourself. It is talking to ourselves as if we are our best friend, a child or an animal. The physiology of self-compassion demonstrates people who are self-compassionate are less likely to be depressed, anxious and stressed. As a result, they are more likely to be happy, resilient and optimistic about the future.
For this journal prompt, I welcome you to grab your journal and offer yourself some words and sentiment of compassion. Bring to mind a recent upsetting or unpleasant situation (ie. maybe you got “needs improvement” feedback on your latest review, maybe you are a parent who feels guilty for working out when you could be spending more time with your child, maybe you had a date, but the person never texted you back etc). When we experience unpleasant events or setbacks in life, we can chose to be our best friend on the journey or our worst enemy. Being hard on yourself can lead to increased suffering and can increase mental and emotional strain. So I welcome you to pick the road of more self-compassion.
In this journal prompt, write a letter to yourself as if your best friend or someone who cares deeply about you. Let yourself hear and feel the worlds they would share to you about this event. (Note: it might feel uncomfortable to write this letter at first, but stick with it and breathe through it.). Let these words and insights help you see and feel the experience from a different perspective.