Self-compassion is a term which carries a lot of weight in the world we live in today. It is about being loving and kind to yourself, always, even when you don’t think you deserve it. Especially on days when you feel disappointed, ashamed or weak. And allowing yourself to feel proud, joyful and strong is a form of self-compassion, too.

Most of us have about 50,000 thoughts every day. It can be difficult to give each one of these thoughts our full attention. In fact, it’s not possible at all. It is about learning how to acknowledge thoughts that come and go and letting them pass as quickly as they came, without too much judgement. And when judgement does appear, you can gently ask it to soften its critical gaze.

Practicing self-compassion means learning to love and appreciate yourself equally on both good and bad days. You celebrate the small wins as much as the long-awaited achievements. They are equally meaningful and worth celebrating. You accept yourself as you are, flaws and all.

Self-compassion means showing empathy for your true Self. Showing up for yourself when it truly matters. But it doesn’t mean selling yourself short, ever. Or compromising your potential to be your best Self in return for any less than you already are. And certainly not giving up on yourself when things get tough. It is not a pity party.

It deeply resonates with those who practice self-care, in some small sense, everyday. And we all deserve to be treated with kindness, by our Self and by others. When given the choice to be critical or kind, I hope you choose kindness every time. And remember how far you have come to be where you are now.

Never forget: your value doesn’t decrease based on someone else’s inability to see your worth.

Photo taken in New Delhi, India.