Well-being: Learning to be kind to oneself
Fashionable concept, or true way of life? For some time now, kindness has been at the heart of the discussion: at work, in relationships, with children… What if the first person we should show kindness to is ourselves?
In January, good resolutions are common and the calls to become "a better version of oneself" abound. Making efforts, correcting a bad habit: all this is commendable, but beware of excessive perfectionism. At Omnisens, we believe that "taking care to be well" above all means accepting oneself as one is, and showing kindness to oneself.
WHAT IS KINDNESS?
HOW TO BE KIND TO YOURSELF?
Being kind to oneself, easier said than done? Yet it is necessary before thinking of being kind to others. Letting go, not seeking perfection at all costs, paying attention to one’s feelings and respecting one’s limits: these are ways to accept oneself as one is and thus radiate well-being around oneself.
5 TIPS TO SHOW KINDNESS TO YOURSELF
1. LEARN TO SAY NO
2. LISTEN TO YOUR EMOTIONS
3. ACCEPT BEING IMPERFECT
Wanting to improve is good, but beware of overdoing it. Mental burden, endless “to-do” lists, societal demands: every day, it is easy to submit to pressure and standards that are simply impossible. And above all, no one but you asks you to keep up! So be clear-eyed about your faults as well as your strengths, accept the former, and make the most of the latter. Let’s say it once and for all: perfection is not of this world!
4. PRAISE YOURSELF
Why is it so easy to focus on failures when every day we are the source of just as many – if not more – successes? Whether the achievement is modest or notable, do not skip self-praise. Take time to reflect on the difficulties overcome, and congratulate yourself for reaching your goal: a good way to boost self-confidence and thus assert yourself more easily.
5. SHOW COMPASSION TO YOURSELF
When your best friend shares her problems, do you immediately conclude that she is the cause? Certainly not. Yet it is easy to apply this shortcut to your own difficulties. Next time, try reasoning with yourself as you would with a close friend. What words would you use to comfort her? What advice would you give her? You deserve just as much gentleness and empathy as those you love.
3 EXERCISES TO PRACTICE KINDNESS TOWARDS YOURSELF DAILY
IN WRITING: KEEP A JOURNAL
Each day, take a few minutes to note a positive feeling you experienced during the day, along with its context. Pride, joy, excitement… All is good to note, and this habit will help you focus more easily on the positive aspects of your life in times of gloom.
ORALLY: COMPLIMENT YOURSELF IN THE MIRROR
We spend a good amount of time each day in front of the mirror, so why not use that time to practice this simple exercise? Out loud, compliment yourself as if you were speaking to a friend. No need for a long praise, a small compliment will be enough to boost your confidence for the day.
PRACTICAL CASE: TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF!
While being kind to oneself mainly involves introspection, do not neglect your physical body! Taking an hour to pamper yourself, letting a moisturizing mask sit, or even giving yourself a home massage, are all ways to care for yourself as you would for a loved one.
And you, what are your tips for showing kindness to yourself? Feel free to share your advice in the comments!
