Be Kind To Me!
Andy Morales, Contributor @ Media x Women
“You don’t belong here.”
“Someone else is more deserving of your place.”
“You could be doing better.”
“What did you really do to get this job?”
Well, it's not uncommon to have these thoughts run through your mind when self-doubt kicks in. They often trample over our confidence like a stampede. It’s hard to ignore self-criticism because you are arguably the best person that knows yourself. However, know that you are not alone. Everyone goes through such feelings at some point. Besides, there are ways you can learn to deal with such thoughts. Here are some ways that can help you learn to be kinder to yourself :
Stop Comparing Yourself to Others’ Accomplishments:
We all have our heroes. There’s nothing wrong with seeing what another person has done in their life and wanting to emulate a part of what they have for yourself. Looking up to someone can be totally healthy, but when what they have starts to make you feel inadequate, that’s when it’s a problem. It’s important to realize that whenever someone else has achieved a goal or dream, they probably had their own trials to face. Everyone’s path in life looks different, so it makes little sense to compare your achievements to theirs.
Take Mental Health Breaks:
This is especially true when it comes to social media. We’ve all experienced scrolling through our phones and feeling like you’re not doing enough because everyone else’s lives look so amazing. At that point, that’s how you know that it’s time to put down our device and disconnect from the world. This self-care can be something as simple as taking a nice relaxing shower, a long walk, picking up a book or watching a movie. Treat yourself from time to time.
Surround Yourself with People Who Care for You:
More often than not we are our own worst critics. By surrounding ourselves with friends and family who care can help us in seeing the good parts of ourselves. Therefore, creating a dependable circle of loved ones is important. Spending time with them can be relaxing, as well as serve as a reminder of how loved and supported we are.
Seek Professional Help:
Even though friends and family care about you, sometimes that support isn’t enough. Seeking out mental health resources, such as a therapist, is an act of kindness to yourself. It’s realizing that you or the people that love you may not have all the answers. An outside, unbiased perspective may help you in figuring out how you can improve in life.