COMPASSION

Maslow’s Hierarchy reserves this level for “Esteem.” Yes, we all should feel worthy and confident when we look inward, but it is even more important to feel sensitive, kind and curious about our inner experiences. The challenge is that self-compassion can only exist by learning to witness internal processes without getting caught up on blame, shame and self-judgment. When self-criticism is balanced by compassion, only then an authentic experience of esteem can blossom.

 

• Learning to be curious and wonder about life experiences, rather than bracing for impact or fearing the unknown.  

• Developing loving kindness for self in a culture of finger pointing, failed accountability, and a mountain of “should-of” and “could-of” inner talk 

• Exploring social roles and the impact our environment has on self-perception.  

• Examining motivation as a sensory-based internal process rather than as a measurable, external goal 

• Improving ones relationship to expectations (yours and others).

• Learning to practice compassion for self and other

• Learning to move toward achievable goals rather than away from momentary experiences of discomfort