Self-compassion, as theorized, comprises distinct but interrelated components: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness, contrasted with self-judgment, isolation, and over-identification.
Here's a breakdown of each factor:
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Self-Kindness: This involves treating oneself with warmth, understanding, and gentleness, especially during times of perceived inadequacy, failure, or suffering. It is about being supportive and understanding towards yourself, just as you would be to a good friend.
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Self-Judgment (Opposite of Self-Kindness): Self-judgment is the tendency to be harshly critical and unforgiving of oneself. It involves beating yourself up for mistakes or perceived shortcomings, leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy. Self-compassion aims to replace this with self-kindness.
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Common Humanity: Recognizing that suffering, imperfection, and difficult experiences are a universal part of the human condition. It counters the feeling of being alone in one's struggles and acknowledges that everyone experiences hardships.
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Isolation (Opposite of Common Humanity): Isolation is the feeling of being alone and separate from others, particularly when experiencing difficulties. It can lead to the belief that your struggles are unique and that no one else understands what you're going through. Self-compassion promotes recognizing shared human experiences to combat feelings of isolation.
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Mindfulness: Observing one's thoughts and feelings without judgment or resistance. It involves being present in the moment and acknowledging painful emotions without getting swept away by them. Mindfulness helps to avoid suppressing or exaggerating negative feelings.
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Over-Identification (Opposite of Mindfulness): Over-identification occurs when you become consumed by your negative thoughts and feelings, losing perspective and feeling overwhelmed. It involves getting "stuck" in the negativity and allowing it to define your entire experience. Self-compassion encourages a mindful perspective to prevent over-identification with difficult emotions.
In essence, self-compassion involves replacing self-criticism with self-kindness, recognizing shared human experiences instead of isolating oneself, and cultivating mindfulness to avoid getting overwhelmed by negative thoughts and emotions.
