Are You a Good Friend to Yourself?
Every waking moment we talk to ourselves about the things we experience. Our self-talk, the thoughts we communicate to ourselves, in turn control the way we feel and act.
-John Lembo
When you talk to yourself, do you hear the voice of a harsh inner critic? What thoughts go through your mind? Do you focus on your weaknesses and flaws? Do you “beat yourself up”? Are you critical or judgemental about what you do and who you are?
Listen to your self-talk. If your friend spoke to you that way, would you value that friendship? Would you talk to someone else like that? If you value being kind to others, then be kind to yourself.
Counteract negative self-talk by advocating for yourself. Remind yourself about your abilities, skills and successes. Tell yourself things that are loving, positive and realistic like, “I am good enough.” , “I’m getting better every day.” or “Perfection does not exist.“. Let yourself off the hook.
Be the kind of friend to yourself that you can value! Embrace and accept yourself as you are today. Show yourself compassion. After all, the relationship you have with yourself is for a lifetime. Make it a positive alliance!
Delinda Samp © Copyright 2012