The Powerful Gift Of Self-Compassion

Empaths do not only have the capability to discern another person’ suffering or pain. We also have the gift of compassion – the ability, as well as the desire, to mitigate someone else’s pain, or alleviate it all together. The two abilities go hand in hand. I have yet to meet an empath who doesn’t express deep compassion and a sincere desire to mitigate pain and suffering. It’s a wonderful gift that the world could use a lot more of right now.

According to Emma Seppälä, a writer for the Harvard Business Review, compassion is a much better business management tactic than toughness. Research shows that the more compassionate response will get you more powerful results as a business manager.

Compassion inspires loyalty according to a study by Jonathan Haidt of New York University. Haidt found that the more employees looked up to their leaders, and were moved by their compassion or kindness (a state he called elevation), the more loyal they became to them. It follows then that responding with anger or frustration has the opposite effect.

Given the above, it follows that the benefits of self-compassion could also be very beneficial to us in our personal lives. Dr. Kristin Neff is a genius in this area. Her book, The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook, has been a valuable tool for me personally.

Self-compassion is a relatively new term and it is not associated with being selfish or ego-centered. Empaths of both sexes, and women in general, are notoriously harder on themselves than others. Giving yourself the same gift of compassion that you so willingly extend to others, opens new doors in a powerful way!

Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves that we would give to others ~ Louise L. Hay

It’s more than just a pat on the back. According to Dr. Neff research shows that self-compassion is one of our most powerful tools. It enhances confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem.  It allows us to face challenges, achieve goals and care for others in a healthier way, that does not drain our own resources.

Many empaths are lacking in self-compassion and self-esteem. Why? Because self-esteem by definition requires that you measure yourself against others to find your value. Self-compassion, just like the compassion we extend to another person, requires no comparison to anyone else. It focuses on giving the same non-judgmental care and understanding to yourself that you automatically extend to another.

There is no amount of self-improvement that can make up for lack of self-acceptance ~ Robert Holden

Taking this journey and really grounding this practice within yourself, allows you to give more to others, not less. Instead of feeling drained you feel empowered and find you have a deeper understanding of the power of compassion and the changes it can inspire.

Louise L. Hay wrote, “You’ve been criticizing yourself for years and hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” Enough said. Give yourself this powerful gift and notice the changes in your life.