There is so much negativity and criticism rampant in the world today that sometimes, the idea of self-compassion feels like nothing more than a distant memory. Even though numerous studies have shown the connection between self-compassion and healthier interpersonal relationships, the notion of being less self-critical somehow proves to be challenging to uphold. With suffering as part and parcel of the human condition, how can we appreciate and develop our own capacity for self-compassion? More importantly, what does it mean to be self-compassionate in the first place?

 

Today, I discuss the meaning of compassion and how compassion for others differs from self-compassion. I discuss the necessary elements to develop compassion for others and the strength necessary to fight your own inner critic. I share how cultivating self-compassion can help your relationships by making you less reliant on your partner, how self-compassion can help us become better parents, and how our children could benefit from the examples we set. I share my experience of building my precious daughter’s casket and how it enlightened me on the true connection between humanity and self-compassion. I also share the conscious efforts I make to be self-compassionate as well as the tools and techniques I use to accomplish this goal.

 

“Compassion is the first step to relieve suffering.” - Pripo Teplitsky

 

This week on Relationships! Let’s Talk About It:

 

• Understanding what compassion is, with respect to what we feel towards others.
• The relationship between compassion and the Buddist’s philosophy of human condition.
• The importance of recognizing that suffering exists.
• How cultivating compassion for yourself can help you have more compassion for others.
• The problem with depending on others to take away our suffering.
• The judgmental voice that exists in all of us and how positive self-talk does wonders for your self-compassion.
• My experience with negative self-talk and how I transform my mindset to be more positive and self-compassionate.
• How I use humor as a tool to nurture self-compassion.
• Using the Hawaiian forgiveness mantra to forgive yourself for mistakes.
• The importance of practicing and developing a habit of self-compassion.
• A fascinating study on the impact of self-compassion in relationships.
• The three main components of self-compassion.
• The significance of being kind to yourself.
• Why parents should give more slack to children and how it’s different from going easy on them.
• Strategies I use to practice self-compassion after making a mistake.
• The story of when I built a casket for my infant daughter, River, and how the experience helped me understand the connection between self-compassion and humanity.
• How being compassionate to yourself can help inspire your partner to take care of themselves as well.
• Why it’s important to bring down self-criticism with self-compassion.

  

Resources Mentioned:

 

• Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff
• The Secret to Love is Just Kindness

 

Join Us for The Power of Appreciation Workshop for Couples

 

Join Pripo and his wife, Yvonne Rainbow Teplitsky, on Saturday, April 27, 2019, in Asheville, NC to learn the secrets of unlocking the Power of Appreciation in your relationships. Genuine appreciation, regardless of how simple or profound, has been proven to bring an immediate shift in the quality and closeness of loving relationships. The Power of Appreciation Workshop for Couples will teach you the necessary skills and fundamental process of enriching your relationship with your partner, deepening the connection, and enhancing the flow of positive.

 

To learn more about The Power of Appreciation Workshop for Couples, and to register, visit HeartShare Counseling & Consulting PC or call (828) 712-8398.

 

Let’s Talk About It!

 

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Relationships! Let’s Talk About It - the show to help you forge deeper, more meaningful connections and relationships with those around you. If you enjoyed this week’s episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts, subscribe to the show, and leave us a rating and review.

 

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Theme music “These Streets” provided by Adi the Monk

 

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