Developing Compassionate Thinking Towards Self and Others

Written and Narrated by Marie T. Russell. When people speak of compassion, they mostly are referring to having compassion for others, for those less fortunate than themselves. And this is definitely a wonderful practice, however, in order to be able to practice compassion towards others, we may first have to learn to be compassionate towards ourselves. Changing Self-Beliefs and Judgments We all have beliefs about ourselves... whether we think we're smart or not, good-looking or not, likeable or not, etc. However, these beliefs are more than just a simple belief, they are usually a severe judgment on ourselves, It's not just that we think we're not "something or other", but really that we believe we are not good enough. These thoughts keep us from loving and accepting ourselves. So perhaps the place to start is to have compassion for our lack of whatever it is we think we lack.. certainly lack of perfection. Cut yourself some slack. You're not perfect! So what! No one is perfect! Even those who may appear to be perfect have their own inner doubts and demons. Have compassion for the imperfect person that you are, and give yourself room to grow by changing your beliefs and judgments about yourself. Be compassionate to your human self with its human failings. You are, after all, a work in progress... Continue Reading this article at InnerSelf.com (plus video version of article) Music by Caffeine Creek Band, Pixabay Article inspired from: BOOK: The Shyness Workbook The Shyness Workbook: Take Control of Social Anxiety Using Your Compassionate Mind by Lynne Henderson. Shyness has evolved as an emotion over thousands of years and can be helpful in some circumstances. However, it can become a problem when it interferes with life goals, develops into social anxiety disorder or leads to 'learned pessimism', mild depression and even 'learned helplessness'. In this way, shyness and shame often hold us back from realising our potential and from engaging with others wholeheartedly. There is nothing wrong with being shy - it is a natural emotion that everyone can experience. But if shyness is negatively impacting your life, The Shyness Workbook can help you grow your confidence. For more info and/or to order this book, click here. Also available as a Kindle edition.