The third step of creating self-compassion is learning how to give this kind of empathy to yourself. Instead of trying to talk yourself out of your feelings, or criticizing yourself for having the feelings, you can empathize with yourself. Yes, it is really uncomfortable for me to go talk with those people. I am feeling really scared right now. Whew, this is tough. A lot of people feel this way. The attitude behind empathy for yourself is that all of your feelings matter, and they are all acceptable. A powerful way to capture this is by using the phrase of course.
In the journey towards self-compassion, the third step emphasizes the importance of self-empathy. Instead of dismissing or criticizing your feelings, it's essential to acknowledge and understand them. For instance, recognizing that feeling anxious before engaging with others is valid and common helps in normalizing these emotions. Accepting your feelings without judgment creates a supportive inner dialogue that fosters healing.
This approach reinforces the notion that all feelings are legitimate and deserve recognition. Using affirmations like "of course" allows individuals to validate their emotions, making them feel more accepted and understood. By being empathetic towards oneself, individuals can confront their fears and anxieties with kindness, ultimately promoting emotional well-being.
